The Metropolitan Police has committed to significantly increasing the release of bodyworn camera footage, a move aimed at rebuilding public trust and addressing viral social media clips.
The force believes that swifter publication of these videos can combat 'selectively edited' content circulating online, fostering greater 'openness, transparency and accountability' throughout its operations.
This policy announcement follows recent high-profile incidents, such as last month's Golders Green knife attack, where officers faced online criticism regarding their use of force. The Met trialled the new approach by releasing footage just hours after that incident.
Previously, bodyworn footage was typically published after criminal proceedings concluded, often years later. The force also released footage of a far-right protest to 'provide an insight into the abuse officers faced from protesters'.
Commander Neerav Patel said the policy will show the work the force is doing and help protect officers. 'We are increasingly seeing videos posted online which are selectively edited... Without the full picture this undermines the work of our officers,' he added.
The Met will now 'proactively release' footage in instances such as tracing suspects, when shown in court, to illustrate heroic acts, or to explain significant events, aiming to build trust and support officers.
