The March print issue of Professional Security features body-worn video and Cumbria-wide CCTV monitoring, among projects that have cash from the Police Innovation Fund.
Kent Police won a joint bid (with Essex Police) for £440,000 towards their Visual Media Evidence and Intelligence Programme, which will use video evidence captured at domestic violence or public order incidents to be analysed using software.
Ann Barnes, Kent Police and Crime Commissioner said: ‘For me this is all about a quality service. We can invest in all the technology in the world but it needs to make a tangible difference to victims of crime. I’m absolutely delighted that Kent is going to this receive money from the Home Office which will help to secure better evidence. One my manifesto pledges was to look at new ways of using technology and this funding will mean Kent Police can now start to explore video use in more detail helping to target potential offenders. With further budget cuts ahead all police forces nationally need to look at utilising as much technology as possible and I’m really pleased that we are already making inroads here in Kent.’
Kent Police’s Chief Constable Alan Pughsley said: ‘Innovation is critical in policing in terms of ensuring we put victims and witnesses first, and in maximising opportunities to bring criminals before the courts. This investment will allow us to accelerate the progress we have been making in this area in Kent.’
Policing Minister Damian Green said: ‘This government’s approach to policing has been radical and forward thinking. I am hugely encouraged that every single police force has shown the same attitude in taking this opportunity to develop new ideas and ways of working. We have some exciting projects in this year’s round, and I am looking forward to seeing the results. Plus, we have a further £50 million worth of funding which will be made available for innovation projects in 2014/15. Crime has fallen by more than ten per cent under this government. By encouraging forces to work together and embrace new technology, we can continue to improve policing and increase efficiency in years to come.’
About the Police Innovation Fund
Established from 2014/15, it will be worth up to £50 million a year. Ahead of its full year of operation, the Home Office made a precursor fund of £20m available to Police and Crime Commissioners in 2013/14. Each of the 43 police forces in England and Wales was successful with at least one of the bids they submitted.
