All uniformed first responders with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) are set to carry always-on body cameras, more than tripling the initial deployment.
Queensland's deployment started on the Gold Coast in 2015 with an initial rollout of 300 cameras, part of a tranche of 2100.
Queensland was also the first state to enact legislation dictating how officers record footage with the cameras to prevent accusations of improper use of the technology.
Data from the cameras is paired with the state’s tablet-based QLiTE system, which QPS commissioner Katarina Carroll said plays a “vital role” in the agency’s day-to-day operations.
“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,” she said in a statement.
Police Minister Mark Ryan added that the technology has enabled 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.”
A QPS spokesperson confirmed to iTnews the service will continue to use cameras from Taser subsidiary Axon, bring the number of its devices in the state to 7,700.
Other states around the country have followed Queensland’s lead in deploying body-worn cameras, with most states and territories also using Axon devices.
Tasmania was most recent to announce adoption of the devices and planned on a quicker deployment to all front line staff (thanks largely to the smaller size of its Police force).
.jpg&h=140&w=231&c=1&s=0)
.jpg&h=271&w=480&c=1&s=1)
