U.K. police recently made their first arrest using facial recognition software following a series of trials at large-scale public events. According to authorities, the man was arrested three days prior to the UAEA Champions League Final
June 3rd while South Wales police were conducting their most recent
experiment with the high-tech surveillance. Cameras linked to facial
recognition software were located around the stadium, local train
station, and designated police vehicles to monitor people in and around
the city center.
Details surrounding the arrest have not been released, but authorities confirmed the man was a local resident “unconnected” to the Champions League Final.
A police spokeswoman described the goal of the surveillance trials that weekend:
The facial recognition technology is currently being
tested as proof of concept, in order to determine its potential and
feasibility within a challenging, real-world policing environment.
The UCL has clearly provided a perfect testing ground. While early
indications are proving positive, we will continue to develop our
understanding of its capabilities and its limitations.
