Initiatives

Sheriff's Officer body worn camera pilot

What’s this about?

Body worn cameras were piloted among Sheriff’s Officers in 2023 under the Court Security Act 2005, and the Surveillance Devices Act 2007.

The pilot aimed to test the effectiveness of body worn cameras in improving the safety for people attending court, or receiving a court order, and Sheriff’s Officers.

Body worn cameras are a significant innovation for law enforcement. They can supplement incident reports, provide evidence in legal proceedings and help to ensure accountability.

How are body worn cameras used?

Body worn cameras are worn in a clearly visible manner during security and enforcement duties. They are not permitted to be worn during administrative duties.

Officers must undergo mandatory training, including on privacy protocols, before using body worn cameras.

Evaluating the impact of the pilot

The NSW Sheriff’s Office in partnership with Charles Sturt University are conducting an evaluation to understand the impact of body worn cameras deployed for use by the NSW Sheriff’s Office.

To inform the evaluation, a broad range of community views are being sought including from the general public and people who have interacted with Sheriff’s Officers, for example:

  • court users
  • those who have recently been served a warrant, or enforcement order, or been part of an eviction process in the last six months
  • members of the public who have served on a jury in the last six months
  • legal professionals who work regularly within the court system

The research project has received Charles Sturt University Human Ethics Research Committee approval. All participation is voluntary, and responses are confidential.  

Statewide Rollout  

Following the successful Body Worn Camera (BWC) pilot, legislation has now been passed to support the ongoing use of Body Worn Cameras by Sheriff's Officers.

The NSW Sheriff's Office has commenced a phased rollout of Body Worn Cameras across the state. 

Final Report on the Evaluation of the NSW Sheriff's Office BWC Trial.

 

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