POLICE officers across South Worcestershire are being issued with the new Body Worn Video (BWV) cameras following the successful roll-out of the technology in Malvern.
The introduction of BWV represents an investment of £2.5million over the next three years, with devices being issued to around 2,200 officers across the alliance of West Mercia Police and Warwickshire Police by the end of this year.
Malvern’s police officers were the first to receive the technology in April.
The main purpose of the camera, which is attached to the officer’s uniform on the chest, is to capture video and audio evidence to support vulnerable victims, help to secure convictions in court and to demonstrate transparency around police activity.
Specialist officers, such as those in firearms, will use a body worn video device and an additional camera which attaches to their headwear.
South Worcestershire policing commander Supt Kevin Purcell, said: “Officers in Malvern have been using body worn cameras since April and the impact to date has been positive.
“Our officers deal with challenging circumstances which can be difficult to put into words.
“Video captures events in a way that cannot be represented in written statements and provides a new perspective.
“This technology helps us give victims the best possible service and the highest chance of getting a conviction in court.”
John Campion, Police and Crime Commissioner for West Mercia, added: “This technology plays a big part in my vision for a reformed, reassured and safer West Mercia and I am pleased to see it being rolled out ahead of schedule.
“It is already clear that the increased transparency which the video provides is reassuring both the public and our officers, giving our communities greater confidence in the police service.
“The higher quality of evidence this delivers, provides a higher quality of service for victims and increases the chance of justice being served.
“This, along with a number of other changes to technology, exemplifies how I am delivering on the promise I made to our communities to deliver the modern, forward thinking police force that they deserve.”
