Police unleash dogcam crime busters

Camera system offers controllers a dog's eye view via a wireless link

Northumbria Police is trialling two new additions to its dog squad, Sammy and Zara, who have been augmented with cameras. 

The dogs wear a digital camera system, dubbed Fido, that allows their controllers to monitor what they see via a wireless link. The cameras also have infrared capabilities to allow viewing in reduced light.

PC Jim Soutar, who has responsibility for the force's dogs, told the BBC: "I'm constantly looking at general purpose dogs throughout the force and if I think they have potential I will give them a development programme.

"We're looking for dogs with above average drive who can operate under stressful conditions."

The cameras are either mounted on the dog's harness or attached to the head via a chin strap. The animals have also been trained to carry mobile phones and deliver them to criminals during a situation in which hostages have been taken.

Northumbria Police has something of a reputation when it comes to canine policing. Earlier in the year it became the first force to introduce boots for its police dogs.