Body worn camera numbers increased
Commissioner Katarina Carroll was today joined by Minister for Police and Minister for Corrective Services, the Honourable Mark Ryan MP, to announce a new contract arrangement that will mean all uniformed first responder officers will have access to use body worn cameras.
The contract arrangements will also deliver a significant improvement in body worn camera technology.
The new contract will increase the Queensland Police Service body worn camera fleet to 7,700 devices. An increase from the initial 2100 supplied devices that previously comprised the body worn camera fleet.
The Queensland Police Service was the first policing agency in the Asia Pacific to implement a body worn camera regime. The early adoption of technology plays a vital role in the way police operate on a daily basis.
Officers wearing body worn cameras in Fortitude Valley today.
Commissioner Carroll said body worn cameras used by police officers were vital policing tools as they provided an impartial record of events and interactions.
“The clarity of real time footage can not only facilitate a quicker resolution to criminal investigations but also provides police officers and the public with confidence that evidence is being recorded without prejudice,” Commissioner Carroll said.
Minister Ryan said the Queensland Government was pleased that police were being equipped with wearable technology.
“Body worn cameras have proven to be beneficial for police officers as they allow officers to improve their response in relation to threats against community safety.
“This increases transparency of QPS responses and ensures consistency in digital evidence handling procedures.
“I will continue to ensure police have the tools they need to do their job,” Minister Ryan said.
