Expanded role for body worn cameras
ACT Policing is preparing to expand the use of body worn cameras (BWC) under phase two of the technology roll out.
From Wednesday, 28 August 2019, officers will be able to manually activate their BWC in a public place or with the express permission of an occupant inside private premises.
Under phase one, which commenced in March 2019, the BWC was automatically activated when a conducted energy weapon was drawn and activated or a firearm was drawn from its holster.
Beginning this week, members already issued with a BWC will complete an additional training course addressing the expanded use. Upon the completion of this course, officers will be permitted to use the cameras in the wider range of circumstances.
To date, 369 BWC kits have been issued across ACT Policing with more than 480 kits to be rolled out across ACT Policing over 12 months, thanks to a $2.7 million injection of ACT Government funding over four years.
Benefits of BWCs include:
- Providing an accurate record of events that are difficult to dispute leading to better outcomes for victims of crime;
- Quality of evidence presented in court is increased leading to quicker court outcomes;
- Audio and video evidence may support reluctant witnesses through the court process;
- Less time is required for written statements when video is available; and
- Greater protection for police against excessive use of force claims.
Media enquiries
Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au