Cleveland Police is bringing in body worn video cameras to officers across the force. The cameras are expected to capture evidence of crimes as they happen and reduce confrontations, say police.
Body worn video, which has been funded by the Ministry of Justice Competed Fund through the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland, Barry Coppinger, will primarily be used to capture evidence at scenes of domestic abuse, however, it will also be available to the support the investigation of other crimes. The Reveal Media RS3SX cameras are already being used by 30 of the 42 UK police forces.
They record audio and video which gives officers an immediate and exact record of anything they are dealing with as well as the effects that an incident can have on a victim and others present at the time.
Cleveland Police Acting Deputy Chief Constable, Simon Nickless, said: “Body worn video has been used for some time in several other forces across the country and it has been shown to be very useful operationally. For example, it has been seen to moderate the behaviour of some people who are acting aggressively, both in domestic abuse and public order situations.
“It will provide strong additional evidence for use in court and it is hoped that it will help increase public confidence. In addition, our officers face threats of danger on the streets every single day and body worn video will go some way to protect them from harm. As police officers we aim to protect members of the public and their property, and prevent, detect and investigate crime and prevent public disorder. I am confident that body worn video will assist us further in doing so.”
