Hello

The introduction of Live Facial Recognition (LFR) vans in Sussex this week marks a bold step forward in smart, targeted policing.

As Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner, my priority is to ensure our communities feel safe, protected and confident in the policing they receive.

That means using all the tools at our disposal to keep Sussex safe, while upholding the public’s privacy rights. This isn’t about surveillance - it’s about safeguarding. LFR technology has already helped catch hundreds of dangerous individuals in other parts of the country and now it’s Sussex’s turn.

Sussex Police will only be deploying the van to specific locations based on crime data, hotspots or as part of a wider police operation. People of interest who are flagged by the software as being on the watchlist will have their identity verified by an officer before a decision is made about whether there are grounds for appropriate engagement or arrest. If you’re not on the watchlist your image is deleted instantly.

You can read more about the deployment of the LFR van in Sussex in my Friday Force Focus below. Further information is also available on the dedicated LFR page on the Sussex Police website.

Cracking down on business crimes

This week is Safer Business Action Week - a national initiative led by the National Business Crime Centre - where Police and Crime Commissioners, Police Forces, Business Crime Reduction Partnerships, Business Improvement Districts and other agencies come together to crack down on retail crime, anti-social behaviour and other crimes impacting local businesses in our communities.

Across the county, targeted patrols, engagement and enforcement activities are placing a spotlight on retail crime, ensuring businesses, residents and livelihoods are protected.

We must never be complacent in tackling this corrosive crime. Consistent, year-round action and enforcement is essential to bring offenders to justice and make our high streets safer for everyone.

Katy Bourne OBE
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner