The trial marked the first time the Met had deployed static live facial recognition cameras in Croydon, with cameras installed on existing street infrastructure at key points on Croydon High Street rather than operating from police vehicles.
More than 470,000 people passed the cameras during the pilot, with the Met reporting just one false alert and no arrests resulting from it.
The Met also reported that 61% of offences linked to arrests were committed in Croydon, highlighting the local impact of the pilot. In addition, the operation resulted in 37 arrests linked to breaches of court-imposed conditions, helping officers identify individuals subject to restrictions designed to protect the public.
The force said each deployment used an intelligence-led watchlist created specifically for the operation no more than 24 hours in advance and deleted immediately afterwards, with officers present on the ground during every deployment.
These results show why live facial recognition is such a powerful tool when it’s used carefully, openly and in the right places. Crime in this area is down by more than ten per cent, and the public can see the difference. This technology is helping us find people wanted by the courts, identify serious offenders quickly and focus our resources where they make the biggest impact, all with exceptional accuracy. We will continue using static cameras in Croydon as part of our regular live facial recognition deployments which play a vital part in keeping London safe.
Lindsey Chiswick, National and Met Lead for Live Facial Recognition
A safe and welcoming town centre is essential for businesses, employees, residents and visitors alike. These results demonstrate the impact that partnership working, proactive policing and innovative approaches to crime prevention can have in reducing offending and building confidence in Croydon. We welcome continued investment in initiatives that support a safer and stronger town centre for everyone.
Matthew Sims, Chief Executive of Croydon Business Improvement District
The results of the Croydon trial of Static Facial Recognition technology demonstrates our commitment to looking for innovative ways of tackling offenders and making Croydon town centre safer. I am delighted with the significant reductions in crime and particularly VAWG offences which shows the power of the technology. We will continue to work with communities to ensure that this technology is used in a way that is legitimate and improves community safety.
Luke Dillon, Superintendent for South Area BCU at the Metropolitan Police Service
The Met has confirmed that static live facial recognition deployments will continue in Croydon as part of its ongoing policing activity.
