A rise in attacks on Torbay Council employees has lead to the council seeking the views of the public on a new trial.
Loan workers such as parking enforcers, dog wardens, security and town centre staff could be fitted with body-worn cameras.
The trial is set to begin this month and will continue until the end of October.
Body-worn Cameras
As well as being a support to staff where violence or aggression is anticipated or already commenced.
The cameras will serve as evidence in any criminal proceedings where dog fouling or littering is witnessed.
All footage taken by the cameras would be encrypted and all data is downloaded and then deleted from the device.
Footage is then stored on a secure database and is deleted after 31 days if there is no request to use the footage.
Executive Lead for Community Services, Robert Excell said:
I want to reassure our residents that the use of body worn cameras is primarily for the protection of our staff, as we have seen an increase in violence and aggression towards them, which is simply not acceptable. These types of cameras not only deters this type of behaviour towards officers but it also provides a clear record if criminal or civil proceedings need to take place.
We would like to hear from our residents about their thoughts on these type of cameras being used to protect our staff and to help with criminal proceedings. If you come into contact with one of our officers who is trialling these cameras you will also be handed a slip which will inform you of this and encouraging you to let us know your views on this through the consultation.
The consultation
A dedicated consultation page has been set up on the Torbay Council website for members of the public to have their say via a survey.
Following the trial, an evaluation will take place which will include how the equipment has worked for the officers.
The impact the cameras have had on incidents of aggression and assaults, along with the results of the consultation will all be taken into consideration .
