All front line police officers in Tasmania have been issued body worn-cameras

The state’s police force has a new tool in its armoury with hopes it will reduce the number of assaults on officers.

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POLICE and Tasmanians will be safer and the delivery of justice better supported with the rollout of 751 body-worn cameras to all frontline police officers now complete.

The rollout was a $3.4 million election commitment of the Liberal Party in 2018.

Police, Fire and Emergency Management Minister Mark Shelton said the cameras would provide significant operational benefits including influencing the behaviours of people interacting with police and reducing the number of assaults against police.

“Importantly, the body-worn cameras further enhance the ability for officers to gather evidence at incident scenes, support successful prosecutions, reinforce positive police conduct and reduce some of the administrative burdens for frontline police officers,” he said.

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Acting Sergeant Tim Stevens and constable Alice Herbert with the new body cameras. Picture: SAM ROSEWARNE

Tasmania Police northern district commander Brett Smith said the cameras gave officers comfort and confidence when they were undertaking their duties.

He said there was strict policy for when cameras should be activated.

“They are mandated for certain incidents, but there are other operational discretions that our police officers can deploy them,” he said.