Calgary Police Service officers to start using body cameras

Feb 7 2018, 4:33 am

The Calgary Police Service (CPS) will begin the hands-on testing of different types of body worn cameras.

After an earlier attempt at incorporating the devices into CPS officers’ kits failed in 2017 due to the cameras causing radio frequency issues and therefore putting officers at risk, the CPS will now be testing cameras from three other suppliers.

A total of 47 cameras will be tested on officers throughout the city over three months, and the data gathered will influence which of the three vendors is selected, according to a release from the CPS on Tuesday.

A deployment of 250 cameras is expected for the end of the year, and a full deployment to frontline officers is anticipated for the second quarter of 2019.

The release states that footage captured during this testing phase will be considered evidence.

The Calgary Police Service said that they hope the body worn cameras will enhance transparency, public trust, officer accountability, and confidence, as well as collect evidence, protect officers from unfounded allegations, and de-escalate situations.

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