PCC announces roll-out of body worn cameras for police
Police in Norfolk will be equipped with body-worn cameras in a phased roll-out to frontline officers beginning in the second quarter of 2017.The announcement was made by the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Lorne Green, whose election pledges included providing police with ‘21st century tools to fight 21st century crime’.
“I have delivered what I said I would deliver. I listened to officers and spent time on the frontline, seeing the challenges they face and the demands on them”, Lorne said. “Our police must have the modern technology they need to fight the crime types affecting Norfolk today.
“This is great news and an important investment in our police. Together with the replacement of old computers for our officers and staff which I signed off just last month, we are making good progress.”
Norfolk Constabulary is working closely with Suffolk Police over the use and implementation of the technology, with a programme team responsible for managing the roll-out.
The cameras will be attached to officers’ uniforms and will not be permanently recording. Members of the public will be told as soon as practicable that they are being recorded, and when the camera is recording it is very obvious – marked by a flashing red circle in the centre of the camera and a frequent beeping noise when it is activated.
As well as supporting officers working in challenging situations, the PCC said introduction of body worn video also offers benefits for the public:
“The cameras will provide greater transparency over our officers’ interactions with the public, providing community reassurance and building confidence. Use of body worn video has also been shown to help deliver justice more quickly for victims of crime. If they’ve been caught on camera, it is more likely perpetrators will take responsibility for their actions.”