An additional 500 body-worn cameras are being made available to Queensland Corrective Services’ custodial officers.
Officers at high security correctional centres around the state, including the Escort and Security Branch’s Princess Alexandra Hospital Secure Unit, now have the use of the cameras to ensure their safety and the safety of prisoners.
“Body-worn cameras are an important tool at QCS officers’ disposal to help them safely manage some of Queensland’s most challenging, complex and often dangerous prisoners,” said Minister for Police and Corrective Services, Mark Ryan.
“As a result of additional funding in last year’s budget, 500 more body-worn cameras have been deployed to centres around the state.
“It is critical that our Correctional Officers are given every support to undertake their difficult work and I am committed to ensuring that continues.
“Correctional officers play an important role in reducing re-offending and making our communities safer.”
Body-worn cameras are now commonly used within law enforcement, correctional and security agencies across Australia.
Deployed strategically throughout each Queensland correctional facility, they act as an additional security measure, along with triple-layer perimeter fencing, controlled prisoner movement and extensive CCTV camera networks.
“Queensland Corrective Services is committed to supporting our Custodial Correctional Officers with the resources they need to ensure their own safety and the safety of prisoners,” said Commissioner, Queensland Corrective Services, Paul Stewart APM.
“We have now more than tripled the number of body-worn cameras available to staff working in high-security centres, and at the Princess Alexandra Hospital Secure Unit, which enables them to carry out their duties effectively.
“Body-worn cameras are used as needed in high-risk areas or during critical incidents to keep our staff, prisoners and visitors secure.
“I am continuously thankful for the hard work all of our officers do each day to manage those in our care and their efforts to keeping Queensland communities safe.”
