CPS to have body worn cameras rolled out to all frontline members by the start of 2017.
https://www.calgary.ca/cps/Pages/Body-Worn-Camera.aspx
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A robust policy has been developed that outlines cameras are to be activated when officers are responding to a call or come across an incident requiring investigation. Recognizing privacy issues, storage capacity and the fact that every situation does not merit the collection of video, the cameras will not be on all the time. A full copy of the Calgary Police Service body worn camera policy can be found at this link.
The matter of balancing privacy with the community benefits of using the technology has been top of mind since the inception of the program. As part of this careful and considered review, we have been working closely with the office of the Privacy Commissioner to ensure they are happy with the steps we are taking. A copy of our Privacy Impact Assessment can be found at this link.
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And from the press release...
http://newsroom.calgary.ca/news/poli...camera-rollout
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In a recent survey, 91 per cent of polled Calgarians said they were supportive of officers using the cameras with 88 per cent saying it will enhance transparency and 95 per cent saying they will increase officer accountability.
Policy outlines that body worn cameras are activated when officers are responding to a call or come across an incident requiring investigation. However, as with any new technology, police anticipate that there will be a learning curve for all members while they adapt to the new technology.
Recognizing privacy issues, storage capacity and the fact that every situation does not merit the collection of video, the body worn cameras will not be recording an officer’s entire shift.
In the coming months, the Service will be embarking on public education and awareness campaign to ensure Calgarians are aware that when they are interacting with a uniformed officer of the Calgary Police Service, there is a possibility that the interaction is being captured on the body worn camera.
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Step in the right direction? Police state?