The Metropolitan Police has committed to significantly increasing the release of bodyworn camera footage, aiming to rebuild public trust and directly address viral social media clips. This new policy seeks to combat 'selectively edited' content online by publishing videos more swiftly, fostering greater 'openness, transparency and accountability' throughout its operations, a change from the previous practice of waiting until after criminal proceedings.
Immediate Release After Golders Green Attack
The force trialled this approach by releasing relevant bodyworn footage just hours after last month's Golders Green knife attack, specifically in response to online criticism regarding officers' use of force. Commander Neerav Patel stated that the policy will demonstrate the work the force is doing, help protect officers from misrepresentation, and ensure transparency even when mistakes are made, to rebuild community trust.
Proactive Release Policy
The Met pledges to 'proactively release' bodyworn video in various instances, including to help trace suspects, when footage is shown in court, to illustrate heroic acts, or to clarify significant or contentious events, particularly amid community concerns. This marks a significant shift from previous practice, where footage was typically withheld until after criminal proceedings concluded.
Commander Patel emphasised that the new approach is designed to counter the spread of misleading clips online. 'By releasing footage quickly, we can provide context and prevent misinformation from taking hold,' he said. The policy also aims to protect officers from being misrepresented in edited videos that go viral on social media platforms.
The decision comes after widespread criticism of police handling of the Golders Green incident, where a man was stabbed in a suspected terrorist attack. Bodyworn footage released hours after the event showed officers confronting the suspect, which helped to address public concerns about the use of force. The Met hopes that this transparency will rebuild trust in communities that have felt alienated by policing practices.
Critics have welcomed the move but caution that releasing footage too early could prejudice ongoing investigations or court cases. However, the Met insists that each release will be carefully considered to balance transparency with legal requirements. The force will also continue to redact footage to protect the identities of victims and witnesses.
The new policy is part of a broader effort by the Metropolitan Police to improve accountability and engagement with the public. Commander Patel concluded: 'We are committed to being open about our work, even when it shows us in a less favourable light. This is essential for building the trust that allows us to police effectively.'
