SOUTH Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Dr Alan Billings has responded to a ‘significant’ police data loss.

The force referred themselves to the Information Commissioner’s Office after they noticed the unexplained reduction in data stored on its systems.

Urgent work, led by digital forensic experts, is underway to recover data of body worn video footage recorded by officers between July 2020 and May 2023.

Approximately 69 cases have been identified as potentially affected by the loss of data.

Dr Alan Billings said the data loss was ‘disappointing and concerning’.

He added: “I have been made aware of a loss of data from the force’s storage systems and the work that is taking place to recover the data.

“There may be implications for victims and witnesses and the wider criminal justice system as some of this footage may be evidence in upcoming court cases.

“The force is working through the implications and direct contact is being made with those affected.

“This incident is disappointing and concerning and the police need to understand quickly what has happened and why.

“I have been briefed by the Deputy Chief Constable and will continue to receive updates as the work continues to recover the data.

“I will also be seeking a full explanation as to how this incident occurred and what measures will be put in place to prevent it happening again.”