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| The Lincolnshire Police headquarters now employs Siemens Custody Suite solution - an advanced security system |
Complying with the requirements of the ACPO safer detention guidance, Siemens technology enables the police to monitor the health and safety of detainees throughout the practical detention process. The solution typically comprises CCTV cameras located at critical points, e.g. the booking in desk, intoxiliser room, live scan room, detention rooms, cells, corridor areas, the exercise yard and van docking station. The system can be integrated into the police IT infrastructure so archived or real-time digital video and audio recordings can be monitored either on site or remotely by designated personnel.
Stewart Brinn, acting chief inspector, Lincolnshire Police, said: "We have upgraded our custody suites in order to ensure we comply with the legal framework within which we have to operate. We have a diverse mix of people coming into our custody suites, from drunks to criminals facing serious charges. Our priority is to hold all detainees in a safe and secure environment, as per the APCO guidance.
"We have CCTV cameras located in key internal areas including the cells and corridors. These feed into a central control area in the charge room where live audio and visual recordings can be accessed on screen. "Being able to provide solid material evidence of a specific sequence of events will prove invaluable should the actions of any of our officers ever be called into question"
"Although the CCTV facility will never eliminate the need for physical cell checks it does support our team in other ways. For example, as well as helping to safeguard the well being of those people in custody, the technology also offers another level of protection for our officers. Being able to provide solid material evidence of a specific sequence of events will prove invaluable should the actions of any of our officers ever be called into question."
Peter Hawksworth, managing director for Siemens Building Technologies Security Solutions, comments: "From working closely with the police over several years we have developed a clear understanding of the changing needs of the custody suite environment. Our priority has been to develop a technical solution which meets ACPO regulations, improves processes and reduces stakeholder risk."
"As well as bespoke technology, we also offer tailor made financial packages and the police benefit from OGC buying solutions and specific frameworks which we have set up in certain areas. The idea is to save the police force time, money and resources throughout the entire tender process."
