Exeter council officers to get body worn cameras

Car park staff will help test them

Confrontations over car parking and an increase in anti-social behaviour mean council officers in Exeter are to be kitted out with video cameras.

The city council has used £15,000 in government money to buy 22 body-worn cameras, and members of the executive committee heard that just wearing them can deter problems.

They are being tested by car park staff and the city’s new community safety team in areas including housing, harbours and waterways.

Members heard of strict policies governing the use of the cameras, and training would be given to anyone being fitted with one. They also heard that Exeter is the last remaining council in Devon to introduce such cameras.

Council director Ian Collinson told them: “The cameras have been purchased to address growing levels of anti-social behaviour, particularly in the city centre.”

Cllr Laura Wright (Lab, St Thomas) said the cameras would have a positive impact.

“It’s all part of the strategy to make the city a better place to be,” she said. “It is helping to protect a lot of people.”