Police invite the public to share CCTV and doorbell footage
Dorset Police have introduced a new tool to transform the way that the Force handles digital media evidence.
NiCE Investigate is a digital evidence management system (DEMS) that is used by 24 forces in the UK and more worldwide. The software allows officers to manage all digital media files for their investigations in one secure place and request evidence from communities across Dorset.
Businesses and members of the public can register the location of their CCTV cameras or other recording devices on the community portal. When a crime is committed, officers can see if there are any cameras in the area that might have captured footage and request it by email. Footage can be submitted electronically, removing the need to use a CD or USB drive.
Dorset Police have no access to the cameras and any footage provided is voluntary.
The Force hopes this streamlined process of collecting digital media evidence will lead to faster results for victims of crime.
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan said: “NiCE Investigate is a significant step forward for Dorset Police and the way we manage digital media.
“Recordings can provide vital evidence in an active investigation. NiCE Investigate speeds up the entire evidence collection, analysis and management process, meaning officers will spend less time gathering and organising evidence and more time to investigate. We’re asking Dorset businesses and residents to register and help protect their communities by sharing any relevant footage their cameras may capture.”
David Sidwick, Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner said: “The introduction of the NiCE Investigate digital evidence management system is an important step forward for policing in Dorset. Having a secure, modern platform where officers can manage all digital media in one place not only streamlines investigations, but also ensures that evidence is handled efficiently, professionally and in a way that supports victims and potentially speeds up justice.
“Crucially, this system strengthens the partnership between Dorset Police and our communities. Through the community portal, residents and businesses can register the location of their CCTV or recording devices, making it easier than ever for officers to identify cameras that may have captured vital footage. This is policing made smarter, faster and more connected, and I am pleased to see Dorset joining the growing number of forces in the UK and beyond who are embracing technology that truly benefits both officers and the public they serve.”
To find out more and register visit https://www.dorset.police.uk/police-forces/dorset-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/nice-investigate/.