Witten Municipality
The Organization
The city of Witten is planning to procure bodycams to supplement the equipment for its field staff in the public order department. The main objective is to increase employee safety and document violent incidents. This step was made possible by the amendment of the law on public order authorities in NRW and is strongly supported by local politics.
Body-Cam Application
Start:
2023 (test run)
Main Objective
The main objective is to provide field staff of the Public Order Office with a way to increase their own safety and to document violent incidents. The introduction of bodycams is seen as a preventive protection mechanism.
Application area:
The bodycams are mainly used in public places, especially in situations where the safety of employees is at risk or violent attacks are feared.
Feedback:
The introduction of bodycams is supported by local politicians and members of the city administration, who consider the safety and protection of municipal law enforcement forces a priority. Positive experiences from other German cities already using bodycams have contributed to this decision.
The city of Witten plans to use bodycams during a 2‑year trial phase to gain experience. After this pilot phase is completed, the results will be evaluated and a decision will be made whether to use the bodycams permanently. This is another step in a comprehensive preventive safety program for the city of Witten.
