Facial recognition technology is set to be used by police at an upcoming Carlisle United fixture.
Cumbria police will deploy Live Facial Recognition at this Saturday’s fixture between Carlisle United and Southend United as part of a wider policing operation that aims to keep fans and the public safe.
The facial recognition technology will be in the vicinity of Brunton Park for the fixture, which kicks off at 5.30pm on Saturday March 7.
Officers said it is intended to help identify people wanted for serious offences and engage with individuals subject to court orders.
It will alsol be used alongside a range of policing tactics, including visible patrols and plain clothes police officers.
Detective Superintendent Dan St Quintin said: “Live facial recognition is an extra tool we can deploy and use to help keep people safe by specifically identifying people who are wanted by the police or who are subject of a court order, including an order banning them from attending such an event.
“The cameras have been deployed at similar events in other parts of the country and will aid our efforts to help ensure that those attending the fixture can enjoy the game with their families.”
How does Live Facial Recognition work?
Live Facial Recognition works by comparing faces captured on a live camera feed against a secure, predetermined watchlist.
The list is made up of individuals wanted for serious offences, subject to court orders, or who pose a risk to the public or to themselves.
If the system identifies a possible match, a police officer will compare the image on screen with the person in view and decide whether to speak to them. This decision will always be made by an officer, never the technology alone.
Cumbria police said if you are not on a watchlist, your biometric data is never stored from passing through the Live Facial Recognition zone. It is immediately and automatically deleted to protect privacy.
Watchlist images are deleted within 24 hours of each deployment, and CCTV footage is deleted within 31 days, the same as standard public cameras.
Carlisle United finance director, Suzanne Kidd, said: “Our focus at every fixture at Brunton Park is to provide a safe and welcoming environment for supporters, staff and the wider community.
“We work closely with Cumbria police and our partner agencies to ensure appropriate arrangements are in place, and we recognise the role that developments in technology can play in supporting that approach.
“We’re looking forward to what promises to be an exciting occasion against Southend, with a strong attendance expected through our Raise the Roof ticket offer and a full programme of activity planned across the day.”
Det Supt St Quintin said: “With the £10 ticket offer for the fixture, we’re expecting a large crowd for the match. This extra measure – put in place in recognition of the larger than usual crowd – will aid our officers in ensuring everyone can enjoy the match safely.
“We hope everyone attending enjoys the game responsibly, whilst supporting their club.”
Cumbria police said all Live Facial Recognition deployments are clearly signposted and details of deployment locations are published on the constabulary website ahead of time here.
