Police Embrace Digitalization: Bodycams Now Available Throughout Austria

The "mobile case processing" will be rolled out in additional federal states, announced Interior Minister Gerhard Karner (ÖVP). Furthermore, body cameras are now available throughout Austria - "every police station is equipped with the appropriate equipment." Both technologies were presented on Friday in Leobersdorf (Baden district) as part of the federal police's equipment offensive.

The so-called mobile case processing is particularly used in patrol services. "Every policewoman and policeman has been equipped with a smartphone on which modern police apps are installed. This allows IDs to be scanned, license plates to be checked, and other administrative tasks to be completed quickly," Karner outlined in a press release. The technology enables "more efficient work and closer proximity to citizens," with block and pencil being replaced by smartphone and tablet.

Bodycams Should Also Contribute to De-escalation

Body cameras, in turn, are used in dangerous operations. They also serve the self-protection of officers. "Moreover, they can contribute to the de-escalation of conflict situations," said Karner. In the past two years, 3,000 such cams have been procured.

Equipment and gear, alongside sufficient personnel and a modern organization, are the essential factors for successful police work, emphasized Karner on the occasion of the joint appointment with group leader Reinhard Schnakl. Regarding personnel, the Interior Minister referred to various measures taken. In 2023, 1,700 new policewomen and policemen were recruited, and 2,600 in the previous year. The further development of the criminal service is "in full swing," with 38 criminal assistance service centers established nationwide.

(APA/Red)

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