Police officers in the City of London are now wearing small body-worn video cameras, when they are out on patrol around the Square Mile.
The cameras have a dual purpose: recording video evidence which can then be used to support a case, and as a crime deterrent.
The City of London force was granted Home Office funding to pay for the 44 cameras, which will enable the Force to make far greater use of video evidence.
Body-worn video cameras are more flexible than the usual headcameras as they can be attached to different pieces of uniform including jackets, cycle helmets and body armour. This means they can be utilised by officers across the force from the dog and mounted units to foot patrols and the firearms team.
Chief Inspector Matt Burgess, leading the project, believes the cameras will be a real benefit to officers out on the streets.
"The body worn video cameras are a valuable resource for any officer when dealing with an incident. They are easy to operate and hands-free so they won’t get in the way. Most importantly they provide officers with added reassurance that they will have live video evidence, which can be shown in court and will help to ensure a swift resolution of the case."
The cameras were supplied by Video Vest.
