Body Worn Video is now being rolled out to frontline officers and staff in South Worcestershire, after the Police and Crime Commissioner, John Campion signed off a £1million investment in the technology.
Body Worn Video will be used in Worcester, Evesham, Pershore, Droitwich Spa, Upton upon Severn, Malvern and throughout rural communities in South Worcestershire, as part of the PCC’s commitment to a modern, reformed police force. The technology has which has been shown to reduce complaints against police officers, help prevent crimes occurring and provide clear evidence of incidents when required.
Officers in Malvern were the first to pilot the technology in April, followed by officers and staff in Telford. As of today, the kit will be rolled out to 238 frontline officers and staff across South Worcestershire, with neighbouring counties to follow in the coming months.
John Campion said “This technology plays a big part in my vision for a reformed, reassured and safer West Mercia and I am pleased to see it being rolled out ahead of schedule.
It is already clear that the increased transparency which the video provides is reassuring both the public and our officers, giving our communities greater confidence in the police service. The higher quality of evidence this delivers, provides a higher quality of service for victims and increases the chance of justice being served.
This, along with a number of other changes to technology, exemplifies how I am delivering on the promise I made to our communities to deliver the modern, forward thinking police force that they deserve.”
Superintendent Kevin Purcell, South Worcestershire Policing Commander said: “Officers in Malvern have been using body worn cameras since April and the impact to date has been positive. Our officers deal with challenging circumstances which can be difficult to put into words: video captures events in a way that cannot be represented in written statements and provides a new perspective.
This technology helps us give victims the best possible service and the highest chance of getting a conviction in court.”
Issued: Monday 26th June 2017