How bodyworn cameras are helping the victims of domestic abuse

There are lots of advantages to bodyworn cameras. They reduce crime and harassment, they provide reliable evidence that can be used in court and they can help people to feel safer.

Image Credit

This may be why video cameras that are worn by the police are now providing crucial new video evidence that can be used to convict domestic abusers.

There have been numerous events in the last few months when bodyworn video footage has led to the prosecution of domestic abusers, even in cases where the victims themselves were unable to give evidence.

The benefits of body worn cameras

There are lots of benefits of bodyworn cameras for domestic abuse victims. This is because many victims understandably don’t feel able to take part in a prosecution case where they would have to face their attacker. Thankfully video footage allows prosecutors to provide evidence of abuse without the victim being present. This means it is much easier for the case to be solved without causing additional trauma for the victim.

So far the bodyworn cameras seem to be working. According to The Independent trials from the Hampshire police on the Isle of Wight, Essex police, and Scotland Yard found that bodyworn cameras are particularly effective for capturing evidence in domestic abuse cases.

Image Credit

If you want to invest in your own bodyworn camera, check out https://www.pinnacleresponse.com/body-worn-cameras for high-quality, affordable options.

Using the footage as evidence

So far, using the bodyworn video footage as evidence has been hugely successful. According to Alison Saunders, the Director of Public Prosecutions, the CPS is currently prosecuting more cases of domestic abuse than they ever have before. It also means that there is more evidence against the attacker. In the past, many domestic abuse cases rested entirely on a statement from the victim and a police officer, and this meant that some cases took years to solve. It also meant that many charges were dropped due to a lack of evidence.

Thankfully video footage provides much more evidence, which makes it easier for juries and judges to make a decision quickly.

The CPS currently uses a variety of different evidence in its cases, including recordings from 999 calls and social media posts. This is so that the CPS can ensure that all possible evidence is explored to support the victim.