Police will have a live facial recognition van on the approach to the ground on Monday
Police will have a live facial recognition van on the approach to the ground on Monday
Police are set to deploy live facial recognition (LFR) at Everton's upcoming home match on Monday, February 23, as part of a wider policing operation. LFR will be in place as fans approach the Hill Dickinson Stadium where Everton are due to host Manchester United in the .
The deployment of the technology is intended to help identify people wanted for serious offences and engage with people subject to court orders, said. The force continued to say LFR will be used alongside a range of policing tactics which include both high-visibility patrols and plain-clothed officers.
Chief Inspector Chris Barnes, who is leading the policing operation, said: "LFR helps us to locate high‑harm offenders swiftly and effectively.
"These high‑tech tools allow us to prevent crime and protect the public, ensuring that law‑abiding supporters aren’t disrupted and can simply focus on enjoying the game.
"We will continue to consider the use of LFR at future events, ensuring our approach remains both effective and proportionate."
The force says the technology works by comparing faces captured on a live camera feed against a secure, predetermined watchlist made up of individuals wanted for serious offences, subject to court orders, or who pose a risk to the public or to themselves.
If the system positively identifies anyone as a possible match, an officer will then compare the image with the person in view to make a decision whether to approach them. The force said the decision will always be made by an officer, rather than the technology.
The force said if people are not on the watchlist, their biometric data is immediately deleted. Watchlist images are also deleted within 24 hours of each deployment and CCTV footage is deleted within 31 days, as standard with public cameras.
A Live Facial Recognition police van will be in attendance at the Hill Dickinson Stadium for Everton's game against Manchester United on February 23
Dave Lewis, head of security and stadium safety officer, said: “Our priority for every fixture at Hill Dickinson Stadium is to provide a safe, secure and welcoming environment for supporters, staff and the local community.
"We work in close partnership with Merseyside Police and other agencies to ensure proportionate and intelligence-led measures are in place for high-profile matches.
“The vast majority of fans attend to support the team responsibly, and any tools used by the police are focused on identifying individuals who may pose a risk to others.
"Through continued engagement with supporter groups and our safety partners, we remain committed to protecting the matchday experience for everyone."
Chief Inspector Chris Barnes added: "Like any football fixture, a comprehensive and proportionate policing plan is in place for Monday’s game.
"It will be a busy operation, and we hope that fans attending will act as ambassadors for their clubs.
"As with any large event, our priority is the safety of those attending. We hope everyone has a fantastic time and enjoys the game responsibly while supporting their club."
Merseyside Police began using the technology in December 2025, supported by LFR vans supplied to Greater Manchester Police by the Home Office.
All LFR deployments are clearly signposted, and details of deployment locations will be published on the force's website ahead of .
For further information, including FAQs, visit the .