COURTS in Northamptonshire will see the introduction of video technology.
The region is one of 13 areas across England and Wales which will use the technology from 2013, which is designed to help administer justice much more quickly.
It will mean that some court appearances will be done via video-link and police officers will be able to give evidence in court via the technology.
Announcing the measures on Thursday last week, the Justice minister Damian Green said: “We want the justice system to respond more effectively to the needs of victims, witnesses and professionals.
“Video technology is the future and I am extremely pleased that Northamptonshire will be rolling out this technology during 2013.
“This is one part of our drive to create a swifter and more efficent justice system for all.”
Over the past year across the country, an estimated 75,000 video appearances took place during criminal cases resulting in savings in transport costs and a reduction in prisoner movements.
As a result of live links, an estimated 300 police hours were saved and offences dealt with include burglary, theft and assault to first hearings for more serious offences such as murder.
Police forces will also be able to use the technology to help vulnerable and intimidated witnesses.
These people will be able to appear more easily via video-link so they do not have to be in the same room as the defendant.