Facial recognition technology to be deployed in Chester city centre this weekend
Cheshire Constabulary will implement live facial recognition technology in Chester city centre on Saturday, July 25, as part of Operation Vigilant.
By Chester Standard
Cheshire Constabulary is set to deploy live facial recognition technology in Chester city centre on Saturday, July 25, coinciding with the Chester Races, which is expected to attract large crowds. This initiative is part of Operation Vigilant, aimed at identifying individuals wanted for serious offences, preventing crime, and protecting vulnerable people in busy areas.
Detective Chief Inspector Robert Pritchard stated that the operation focuses on safeguarding vulnerable individuals and preventing crime, particularly in settings with a high night-time economy. He noted, "The deployment of Live Facial Recognition technology provides us with an additional capability to identify individuals who are wanted by police or who may pose a risk to the public, allowing officers to take positive action where necessary."
The technology will alert officers in real time if someone on a pre-approved watchlist enters the monitored area. Each potential match will be verified by a trained officer before any action is taken. Images used will only be from watchlisted individuals, and data for unmatched individuals will be deleted immediately and automatically.
This deployment follows the first Operation Vigilant live facial recognition deployment earlier this month, which yielded positive outcomes and supported broader safeguarding efforts in the city centre. Neighbourhood officers and partner agencies will be present to engage with the public, providing information about the technology and offering reassurance. Visible signage will inform visitors that the technology is in use.
In addition to the facial recognition technology, a dispersal order will be in effect from 10am on July 24 to 10am on July 26, allowing officers to exclude individuals from the area for up to 48 hours to prevent disorder. Inspector James Wilson emphasised the importance of safety during the busy weekend, stating, "These measures help us identify those who may pose a risk to others, tackle anti-social behaviour and take action to prevent harm before it occurs."
Members of the public can find more information about live facial recognition on the Constabulary’s website, including details on how the technology works and the safeguards in place to protect privacy. Anyone with information about anti-social behaviour is encouraged to contact Cheshire Police via their website or by calling 101.