Early success for crime video link

The new system of being able to report crime to the police via a video link has been hailed a success.

Last month Lincolnshire Police introduced an Enhanced Video Response Team (EVR) – a unit people can report crime to via video link.

When there is no immediate threat which requires offices to attend crime scenes the public can opt for a live video conversation with an officer who will conduct enquires and take statements.

The force stresses EVR does not replace home visits or any other existing functions but gives people the chance to engage with our officers in a more convenient way.

The new initiative was introduced to make sure people are spoken to more quickly, while freeing up frontline officers to attend more serious incidents.

Lincolnshire’s team was introduced followed the success of Dorset Police’s scheme and the former has already seen positive results.

It has dealt with around 570 incidents in its first month with around three quarters handled within just 24 hours.

This service aims to ensure people get answers and closure as quickly possible, with 100% of those who have completed surveys saying the service had met or exceeded their expectations.

In the video above Chief Inspector Colin Clarkson, who has been working alongside others to bring the project to life in recent months, explains more about the success we’ve seen in the first month.

And Inspector Matthew Bennison, who also worked on planning and implementing the new team, breaks down notable cases and a step-by-step process of how the new service works.