Body-worn cameras to be rolled out to police officers in Suffolk

Suffolk Police will be entering a new technological era as body-worn cameras are rolled out to police officers.

The first batch of cameras were issued to all frontline roads policing officers, firearms, dog units and dedicated licensing team officers in Suffolk earlier this week on Monday, May 30, and it is anticipated that all frontline police officers will have a camera by the end of the year.

The cameras, which have been supplied by Reveal Media, will ensure increased accountability for police officers and will allow them to record actions of members of public while on duty.

Members of the media are invited to the following opportunities:

Chief Supt Mike Fawcett said: “This camera rollout marks a huge step forward for policing in Suffolk and we anticipate it will have a positive impact in making the county safer. Officers using the devices will have the capacity to capture evidence of criminal activity and, not only this; it has also been proven that people are less likely to offend when they know they are being filmed.

“This is the future of policing so we have invested in a high quality, easy-to-use product in order to provide the best possible service to the people of Suffolk.”

Suffolk Police and Crime commissioner Tim Passmore said: “Anything that improves the public’s trust and confidence in the constabulary and makes life on the streets safer for our police officers has my full support. This is an excellent example of joint investment between Norfolk and Suffolk Constabularies and there is no doubt this very exciting project will help transform operational policing in both counties.

“These cameras will be a valuable tool in the box for fighting crime and crime prevention and keeps us at the forefront of change and innovation in modern policing.

“My police and crime plan specifically refers to my commitment to officers and staff. I want to be sure they have the equipment, training and resources to enable them to perform their roles; the Chief Constable and I are united in this commitment.”