Facial recognition technology identifies masked suspects
Written by Eleanor Tait on 29th November 2024
Northumbria Police have introduced new facial recognition technology to help identify those involved in criminal activities.
Over three days last week, 19 people involved in the violent disorder across Sunderland in August 2024 were arrested with the help of innovative new software which is designed to help police track down those responsible.
The force have warned that even where perpetrators of the disorder attempted to conceal their faces by wearing masks, the new technology means that they can be traced.
Investigations into the August violence are ongoing. Detective Chief Inspector Graeme Barr of the Major Investigations Team said:
“The scenes which we witnessed in Sunderland were utterly shocking and we remain committed to ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.
He added: “Our dedicated officers have used the latest technology to help review over 10,000 hours of CCTV footage from the evening of the disorder and are using a number of methods, including facial recognition technology, to identify people we believe played a part.
“These offenders may think that because they wore masks or concealed their faces that we can’t trace them, but they would be mistaken.”
During the violent disorder on August 2, officers and their vehicles were attacked, businesses and public buildings were damaged, and shops looted.
Since then, a full investigation has been launched with a total of 66 arrests now made in connection to the violence.
More than 40 years’ worth of prison time has so far been imposed on perpetrators of the disorder, with 19 pleading guilty to various offences including several admitting riot. They have now either been sentenced or await sentencing.
A further 33 people have been bailed in connection with the investigation. Northumbria Police have stated that their investigations are continuing, and perpetrators will be identified.
Det Ch Insp warned: “To those who believe they have got away with their involved, our work is very much ongoing, and the net is tightening all the time.”
He continued: “Our message to those involved is clear – hand yourself in before we come knocking on your door.
“Rest assured, the activity which has taken place this week will not end here. The investigation continued and we would ask that anyone who has information which could assist us in bringing more of those responsible to justice to do so.”
Anyone who has information to help identity those involved can make contact by sending a direct message via social media, using the report forms or live chat function on their website, or visiting their public portal.
Information can also be reported by ringing 101 or calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.