The move comes after an independent evaluation of a pilot project in Plymouth by Devon and Cornwall Constabulary, published today, showed that use of Body Worn Video devices led to an increase in the proportion of crimes where the offender was brought to justice compared with incidents where the cameras were not used.
The clear evidence provided by head camera footage means that offenders have less opportunity to deny their involvement, leading to less paperwork for the police, earlier guilty pleas, less time spent in court and an increase in convictions.
Tony McNulty said:
"The use of body worn cameras has the potential to improve significantly the quality of evidence provided by police officers in the drive to reduce crime, the fear of crime and increase the proportion of offenders brought to justice.
"I am delighted to be able to announce £3million for the police service which will enable forces to make this valuable technology available to frontline police officers in England and Wales.
"This Government is committed to tackling violent crime and antisocial behaviour and the assessment so far is that the deployment of this new technology could be very effective in reducing crime, acting as a preventative tool and a means to enhance detections."
Alongside the independent assessment report on the Plymouth pilot project, the Home Office today also published guidance for the police for the use of Body Worn Video Devices to ensure that procedures are standardised across forces.
The report and guidance were launched at a conference on Body Worn Video Devices being held in Plymouth today, hosted by Devon and Cornwall Constabulary.
