Grande Prairie will be one of the select RCMP detachments from across the country that will start field testing body-worn cameras.
According to a release from RCMP, the cameras will record audio and video, with data being uploaded to a secure digital evidence management system. According to the release, “this field test represents the final stage of the procurement process and will be used to inform roll-out to RCMP detachments across the country.”
In a statement, RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme says Canadians have the right to demand more accountability from RCMP and feel protected by the police, adding the RCMP is committed to taking the steps needed to increase the publics trust in the service.
“The rollout of body-worn cameras to RCMP officers is one more step towards building a more modern accountable RCMP,” Duheme says.
According to officials once the field test is complete, it will take 12 to 18 months for the notional rollout to be completed in a phased approach. Officials say once the rollout is complete, body-worn cameras and the secure digital evidence management system will be the standard across the country for general duty frontline RCMP officers.
Approximately 300 cameras will be sent to select detachments across Alberta, Nunavut, and Nova Scotia.