Body Worn Video is being rolled out to West Mercia Police officers, after Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion pushed for its delivery.
As part of the PCC’s commitment to a modern, reformed police force, he has invested £1million in the technology which has been shown to reduce complaints against police officers, help prevent crimes occurring and provide clear evidence of incidents when required.
46 officers in Malvern are being equipped with the technology, with plans to roll out to all frontline West Mercia Officers and Staff by the end of 2017.
John Campion said “I promised that I would invest in a modern, forward thinking police force that makes the best use of technology in order to provide an efficient and effective service. One of the ways I am delivering this is through the rollout of body worn video. This technology provides a higher quality of service for victims with high quality evidence which increases the chance of conviction.
The increased transparency which the video provides helps to reassure the public, giving our communities greater confidence in the police service. I am pleased to see the technology in use in Malvern and look forward to seeing it playing a big part in my vision for a reformed, reassured and safer West Mercia.”
Chief Constable for West Mercia Police, Anthony Bangham, said: “Video captures events in a way that cannot be represented in written statements: footage helps to show the real impact a crime can have on victims. It provides us with high quality evidence to share with colleagues and our partners to give us the best chance to secure a conviction in court.”
Issued: Friday 7th April 2017
