Published on Friday, 29 May 2020 at 2:07:58 PM
The Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley welcomes the use of body cameras to improve the safety of both the community and its Rangers. During the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 24 March 2020, the Council endorsed the Surveillance Device Policy, which has allowed Shire Rangers to use the body camera as part of their role.
“The use of the body camera does not only improve the safety of Shire employees while under their duties as Authorised Officers, but it also ensures the transparency and accountability of Authorised Officers in their interactions with members of the public,” said Shire President, Cr David Menzel.
Procedures are in place to ensure Shire Rangers are using the equipment correctly. Under the Surveillance Devices Policy, Officers can record footage in circumstances that concern their safety, the safety of another person, in a violent incident or if the officers suspect a violent incident will occur. In accordance with Section 6 (3) of the Surveillance and Devices Act 1998, Shire Rangers must obtain the express or implied consent of the parties before recording.
Cr Menzel said the Shire acknowledges recent community feedback concerning a few isolated incidents involving the Rangers.
“Whilst the Shire works to address community concerns, Council would also like to recognise the Rangers for the positive, diverse and often difficult duties they undertake in our community, which are often overlooked.
We hope that by introducing the body cameras, we can improve safety and transparency, whilst also being able to efficiently process any incident reported by the community or Shire Rangers.” he said.
To read more about the Surveillance Device Policy, please visit http://tiny.cc/CPGOV3113
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