Durham Constabulary

| Feedback |  Text Size 

Home » Operations and Projects » Head Cams

Head Cams

Get Flash PlayerFlash Player plugin required
Click here to download

PREVENT - DETER - CATCH - CONVICT

The introduction of head cameras (Body worn video device) in County Durham and Darlington is hoped to deter people from committing crime and anti social behavior. It will increase opportunities for the collection of better evidence, which can bring the scene of an incident into the courtroom ensuring those guilty of a crime are successfully convicted. The use of video footage in this context provides compelling evidence of the conduct of suspects and the immediate impact on victims. Uniformed officers and PCSO's from Durham Constabulary will use the head cameras in an open and transparent way, within a variety of incidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Body Worn Digital Recording Systems be used to spy on people?

No - The cameras will be used overtly by officers in uniform. The police are required to comply with relevant legislation and to have due regard for Home Office guidance following a national pilot scheme in 2006. Officers will only record incidents were there is a policing purpose or evidential requirement.

Why do the police need more cameras?

CCTV cameras are an integral part of today's society and the benefits of their use have been shown on countless occasions in the capture and conviction of offenders. Body Worn Digital Recording Systems such as head cameras are a way of equipping officers with modern technology to obtain high-quality primary evidence. This will assist in the investigation of crime and presentation of cases in court.

What happens to the footage once it has been recorded?

Evidential footage is copied to a master DVD which is sealed as per police procedures and a working copy is produced for use in any subsequent investigation. Non-evidential footage is deleted after 31 days, in accordance with current Home Office/ACPO (Association of Chief Police Officers) CCTV guidelines.

How will this technology benefit the police and the public?

It will significantly assist the courts to see video footage of incidents as they unfold. This will make it more difficult for individuals to deny their involvement in an incident or make light of their behavior. It has been noted during trails that behavior towards Police officers and PCSO's, in particular regarding young people can be positively affected when they are aware of the head cameras being present.

When will police officers be recording?

Recordings will be incident specific, primarily targeting violence-related incidents in both public and private, anti social behavior and any other criminal behavior. However, the cameras can be used in a wide variety of incidents including road policing, house searches and disputes.

How will I know if a police officer is recording me?

Due to the overt nature of the product and the high media coverage, all persons who are involved in an incident and come into contact with officers wearing the head camera, should assume that they are being recorded.

Can the footage be used by any one else?

All recorded images are the property of Durham Constabulary and are recorded and retained for policing purposes in accordance with force procedures. There may however be occasions when the police information (evidential footage) will be shared with partner agencies to assist in the prevention and detection of crime or the protection of persons at risk. This will be done within the framework of information sharing agreements in place with the relevant organisations.

Who makes sure the police are doing what they are supposed to with this equipment and any footage collected?

The Data Protection Act 1998 regulates the processing of information, including footage from the head cameras. The Information Commissioner is responsible for ensuring that all public authorities comply. Further information is available from the ICO website at www.ico.gov.uk