| A Dundee-based MSP today visited Tayside Police HQ to see in action a new computer initiative aimed at preventing the stress for victims and witnesses that can result from face-to-face identity parades.
Following pilot schemes elsewhere in Scotland, Marlyn Glen asked Tayside Police in May about the possible use of Viper (Video Identification Parade Electronic Recording).
The system uses a national database of images taken from volunteers, which is used to create a computerised ‘line-up’, dispensing with the identity parades of the past.
Ms Glen was told Viper had been installed at force HQ in Dundee and that staff were being trained in its use.
Detective Chief Superintendent Iain Macleod and Sergeant Fiona Smith gave the MSP a demonstration.
Ms Glen said, “I am pleased to be shown Viper at work by Tayside Police, and to learn from them what they regard as its particular benefits.
“Viper is a great step forward in reducing the nerve-racking ordeal that identity parades are for victims who fear having to face the accused.
“Another advantage is that it can be used outside the police station. It can be loaded on to a laptop and used in surroundings more familiar and less formal to the victim, such as his or her own home.”
The Viper system should also speed up the criminal justice process by removing the need to find volunteers for the line-up. |
