Police body-worn cameras roll out across region

POLICE officers across Dumfries and Galloway are now required to wear body-worn video cameras.

About 250 officers including road policing officers and dog handlers and custody staff, will be provided with devices over the coming weeks.

The equipment can help to de-escalate incidents, improve public trust in policing and reduce complaints, as well as support officer and staff safety.

Dumfries and Galloway local commander, Chief Superintendent Steven Meikle said: “The national roll out of body-worn video cameras is a key priority for us and is one of the ways that we can work towards our vision of safer communities and less crime.

“The cameras and technology will improve the quality of evidence presented in court to deliver faster justice for victims by increasing early guilty pleas and reduce the time spent at court for victims, witnesses and police officers.”

Every frontline uniformed police officer, including special constables, will be expected to wear a video camera on their uniform while on duty and to activate it when using police powers, whether it’s a stop and search, an arrest of a suspect or executing a search warrant.

The footage may be used as evidence, but it will decided by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) to review and determine if footage is used on a case-by-case basis.

Chief Superintendent Meikle added:“Body-worn video can significantly enhance public confidence and support officer and public safety by providing effective and transparent evidence of police and public interactions.

“There is strong public and partner support for body worn video and we will continue to explain our use of this important technology including assurance around data privacy and human rights considerations.”