Dorset residents asked for views on Live Facial Recognition tech
Public consultation launched ahead of potential summer deployment
A public consultation has been launched in Dorset seeking views on the potential use of Live Facial Recognition (LFR) technology this summer.
Residents can share their opinions via a survey, opened by the Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), aiming to assess public sentiment toward the deployment of LFR.
The technology involves vans equipped with cameras that compare live images against a secure watchlist of individuals, including wanted criminals.
Officers review the technology's generated matches to determine if action is needed.
The public can access the survey online, remaining open until 14th May.
Dorset PCC David Sidwick said, “While I support the use of new technology which will help Dorset Police in the detection and apprehension of known offenders, a key part of my role as Dorset’s PCC is to ensure the use of technology such as LFR is properly and robustly scrutinised. I want to be very clear with the people of Dorset that this technology will be subject to strict safeguards to ensure fairness, transparency and privacy.
“As your voice in policing, I believe we should support measures which can make us safer but there may also be concerns regarding use of new technology and I want to hear from Dorset residents to help Dorset Police understand the public’s views.”
For those on the watchlist, LFR may facilitate detection, whilst images of non-watchlist individuals are promptly deleted.
The PCC urged the importance of transparency, public confidence, and accountability in policing, with public feedback contributing to operational decisions.
Participation is encouraged via the survey link here.