Bedfordshire Police make over 100 arrests with Live Facial Recognition
The technology compares camera feeds against biometric templates from a watchlist
Bedfordshire Police says it has arrested over 100 individuals since implementing Live Facial Recognition (LFR) technology last year.
The technology, used more than 80 times across the county, has generated over 260 alerts identifying high-harm offenders, habitual knife carriers, and individuals subject to Domestic Violence Protection Orders.
LFR deployments have taken place during targeted operations in town centres and major events such as the Bedford River Festival and Luton Carnival.
These efforts have led to diverse arrests, including a man suspected of firearm possession and another wanted for child sexual offences.
The LFR system works by comparing live camera feeds against biometric templates from a watchlist specific to each operation.
Upon receiving a potential match alert, officers assess and engage with individuals to confirm their identity before taking action.
If no match is found, captured biometric data is immediately deleted.
Sergeant Kim Coates, LFR Operational Lead, explained that LFR offers a proactive policing method and reassures the community: "Having LFR in our town centres allows us to take a proactive approach to policing, helping us locate and apprehend those who cause the most harm while providing reassurance to the wider community."
Sgt Coates added: "Engaging with the public is an important part of every deployment. We regularly speak to residents, explain how the technology works and address any questions or concerns about the use and retention of biometric data.
“Live Facial Recognition is ultimately about protecting people. While it helps us identify individuals wanted by police, it can also assist in locating vulnerable or missing people, which can be particularly valuable in busy town centres and at large-scale public events.”