- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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