The Bradford West Gwillimbury/Innisfil Police Services Board has approved a program that will see South Simcoe Police Service officers outfitted with Body-Worn Cameras (BWCs).
Under the Body-Worn Camera Project, 75 Axon Body-Worn Cameras will be issued to all front-line officers, along with officers in the Traffic and Community Mobilization and Engagement Units.
The police service is entering into a 5-year agreement with AXON Public Safety Canada Inc. starting on January 1, 2023. The contract includes up to 2 product refreshes and upgrades over the five-year period.
In addition, the Police Services Board approved the hiring of a full-time redaction clerk in early 2023.
The roll-out of the cameras follows a four-month pilot project to determine the value of the BWCs to the police service, our partners and the community, regarding evidence collection, trust, transparency, accountability and service effectiveness. The service also conducted a public opinion survey.
Quote - Acting Chief John Van Dyke: “The cameras are a step forward in modernizing policing services while enhancing trust, accountability and transparency between officers and the public.”
Quote - Police Services Board Chair Chris Gariepy: “In endorsing the Body-Worn Camera program, the Board would like to thank residents for their valuable feedback. The public opinion survey showed overwhelming community support for BWCs."
Banner image supplied by South Simcoe Police
