The Use of Facial Recognition Technology by Cheshire Police to Combat Retail Offenders

In recent times, Cheshire Police has implemented facial recognition technology as a means to apprehend individuals who present a threat to shop workers and retail establishments across the county. Police Commissioner, John Dwyer, has confirmed the usage of this advanced technology with the aim of safeguarding retailers from reported crimes.

During a discussion with Gemma Shepherd-Etchells, a member of the police and crime panel, Mr Dwyer clarified that the facial recognition technology is employed as a historical tool rather than in real-time. Following the occurrence of an offence, the CCTV footage is subsequently inputted into the facial recognition database to identify the perpetrators. He stressed that the police’s response to instances of violence is contingent on a threat assessment, with efforts to respond to ongoing violent incidents within 15 minutes. Furthermore, beat officers are actively engaging with retail workers and taking proactive measures to address persistent offenders, including the use of criminal behavioral orders (CBO) to restrict access for repeat offenders to targeted retailers.

In response to an inquiry from Mrs Shepherd-Etchells regarding the need for increased legal protection for shop workers in England and Wales, similar to legislation implemented in Scotland in 2021, Mr Dwyer expressed his full support for such measures. He believes that providing additional legal protection for shop workers would be both beneficial and necessary.

The proactive use of facial recognition technology by Cheshire Police represents a significant step towards bolstering the safety and security of retail workers and establishments in the region. The objective is to deter and prevent offences against shop workers, sending a clear message to potential offenders. It is essential for retailers facing challenges to promptly communicate with the police, as timely reporting allows for an expedited response to ensure the safety of those involved.

By taking a firm stance on the protection of shop workers and leveraging technology to combat retail offences, Cheshire Police is making commendable efforts to create a safer environment for both employees and customers. The use of facial recognition technology as a strategic tool, in conjunction with the active engagement of beat officers, exemplifies the commitment of law enforcement to address persistent offenders and safeguard the retail sector.

As the collaboration between law enforcement and retailers continues to evolve, it is essential to explore further measures that can be implemented to enhance the safety and well-being of shop workers. The utilization of technology and proactive policing strategies provides a foundation for creating a safer retail environment, and the continued support for legislative measures to protect shop workers emphasizes the commitment of authorities to address this important issue.