Body Cameras Trailed to Combat Retail Crime

Body Cameras are being trialed at PaknSave in Tauranga. Staff have been fitted with front-facing cameras. These body cameras are similar to what prison and police officers wear. It is another security measure being implemented in an attempt to deter and catch disorderly behaviour.

 

Foodstuffs spokesperson Emma Wooster says stores use a variety of security tools to keep teams and customers safe.

 

These security measures range from CCTV cameras, uniformed and plain-clothed security team members and training to de-escalate situations.

 

“A small portion of stores have chosen to use body cameras as another tool to help keep team members safe.”

 

She did not state how many stores were using the technology but said it was a “a sad reality that retail crime is on the rise” and that these security measures are deemed necessary.

It is understood Countdown would also look to trial body cameras.

 

“We are still looking at how these could be used as a tool to reduce aggression and violence,” a spokesperson told the Herald.

 

Jon Duffy from Consumer NZ said shoppers deserved full disclosure about how the technology would be used and if it served the purpose. They have questions about the level of disclosure, specifically if the signage used in the Tauranga store was adequate.

 

“Does this ensure a shopper fully understands that any interactions with staff will be recorded?”

 

“We would suggest Pak’nSave staff, if they haven’t already, receive training to inform customers – before they interact with them – that they are being recorded.”

 

It’s about striking a balance between privacy and public safety.

 

Full article at Stuff

 

As per previous blog the massive increase in retail crime and vicious assaults happening to staff daily have become a huge concern to all New Zealanders.