Tayside Police to begin wearing video cameras next spring

Tayside Police in Scotland are set to introduce body-worn video cameras for officers starting next spring, becoming the first division in the country to do so. The decision was revealed by Tayside Police Chief Superintendent Nicola Russell during a meeting with Perth and Kinross Council’s Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee on November 27. The body-worn cameras are small, lightweight devices attached to an officer’s uniform, designed to enhance frontline officer safety and provide crucial evidence for victims.

The move comes following a public consultation conducted by Police Scotland between June and September 2021, where 82% of the 9310 responses received expressed support for the use of body-worn cameras by police officers, operational staff, and special constables. Chief Superintendent Russell shared the plans for the cameras to be implemented in Tayside next year, highlighting the division’s commitment to ensuring officers are equipped with necessary tools and support.

According to Police Scotland’s policy, the cameras can be activated and deactivated by officers to capture both audio and visual footage, with a preference to inform individuals before recording whenever possible. The objective is not to use the cameras covertly or for surveillance purposes but to improve evidence gathering and expedite the judicial process to offer better experiences for victims and witnesses.

Following the meeting, a Police Scotland spokesperson emphasised the importance of the technology in safeguarding officers’ wellbeing and enhancing the quality of evidence collection to ensure justice is served promptly for victims of crime. The implementation of body-worn cameras reflects a proactive approach by Tayside Police to embrace technological advancements in law enforcement for the benefit of both officers and the community they serve.

In summary, Tayside Police’s decision to introduce body-worn video cameras signifies a significant step towards modernising policing methods in the region. The move not only enhances officer safety and evidential support but also demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices. By utilising these technologies, Tayside Police aims to strengthen community trust and improve efficiency in delivering justice to those affected by criminal activities.

Insights:
The introduction of body-worn video cameras in Tayside Police represents a proactive approach towards leveraging technology for enhanced policing capabilities.
By involving the public in the decision-making process through consultations, Police Scotland demonstrates a commitment to transparency and responsiveness to community feedback.
The emphasis on notifying individuals before recording with the cameras reflects a balanced approach to respecting privacy rights while ensuring effective evidence collection for criminal investigations.