Wavelet Technology Marketing Limited - Application Release In response to the initiative to improve the quality of evidence available, a number of major data recording projects have been commissioned for the North Yorkshire Police force, using Wavestore Digital Video Recorders (DVRs). These projects were specified to record the video and audio evidence from the witness and custody suites. A total of eleven Wavestore DVRs were installed in six separate police stations to fulfil these and other allied requirements. The Witness and Interview Suite application in York Police Station utilises a DVR capable of recording 8 channels of video and 8 channels of synchronised audio. The machine is specified to record 8 channels of video, each at a rate up to 25 images per second, whilst also recording the complementary channels of audio. The Witness Suite consists of cameras in several different interview rooms, where strategically located switches control the specific recording activation. The installation uses radio microphones to record the entire conversation during the interview. The audio is digitally recorded and automatically time stamped and synchronised to the relevant video channels. Upon completion of an interview or identity parade, copies of the relevant video clips can be recorded onto DVD, containing all the audio and video data acquired. Three DVDs can be burned simultaneously using Wavestores Triple-DVD burner, which was developed to minimise the manpower and recording time required of current single copy systems. DVDs can be recorded in Wavelet format and replayed using a proprietary replay programme (which is included on each DVD and permits frame by frame analysis), or standard DVD Video format which is compatible with commercial DVD players in order that they may be viewed in preparation for a court appearance or shown during a court hearing. A similar Wavestore system was installed in the Cleveland Police Identification Unit, to provide indisputable video evidence of the selection process. This installation differed from the North Yorkshire system in that it was required to capture and record 12 real-time video channels together with their synchronised audio channels enabling the proceeding of identity parades to be recorded. Custody Suite applications were commissioned at a further four police stations involving the installation of networked groups of 2 or 3 Wavestore systems, each recording 8 channels of video at 12 images per second per channel as well as 2 audio channels. These networked DVR solutions are used to create a factual record of the audio and video evidence at various important processes within the Police station. When an arrested individual arrives at the custody desk of these Police stations, they are made aware that their actions are being filmed by means of a live monitor behind the desk. When their possessions are passed over the desk, a strategically located camera records the entire transaction, in detail, including the conversation that takes place between the detainee, the office in charge and others present. These DVRs are also utilised to record the process of breath testing, (CAMIC), providing proof that the process is conducted in accordance with the due process. Specific custody cells, used for the detainment of 'vulnerable persons are also monitored to maintain vigil over those detained and recorded should an adverse event occur. Other cameras within the installations are utilised to monitor the police station entrances and corridors, in order that any exchange between the police and the public may be recorded. The Wavestore design provides synchronised and time stamped recording across such networks, and its Fast-Find and Multiple Clip Copy features enables relevant video and audio data to be located and retained for evidence. In addition, the Wavestore solution provides image-by-image video analysis, permitting specific still images to be printed as required. The Polices intention in installing the recording technology is to improve the accuracy and efficiency in the criminal process and provide indisputable video evidence to assure the public and those detained that an acceptable standard of conduct is maintained. It is anticipated that the number of allegations of Police mistreatment or of incorrect processing will be greatly reduced due to the audio-visual evidence now available, and reduce the number of spurious allegations which have become commonplace. The successful installation of these systems has enabled the police officers; now familiar with the capabilities of the system, to extend the system deployment to address other aspects of policing, such as the development of HR, on-the-job training and assessment programmes. About Wavestore: A remote client software development tool, which is designed to operate on a Windows platform, allows the user to design unique viewing screens to show either or both recorded and live images, and automatically display images from any camera that has been triggered. Wavelet Technology Marketing Ltd Tel: E-mail: |