News release - South Simcoe Police
The implementation of body-worn cameras (BWC) continues to expand in police agencies across the country and the South Simcoe Police Service has launched a pilot project to assess the viability of using BWCs as part of their day-to-day operations.
The pilot project will see sixteen front-line officers outfitted with BWCs from May 6 to August 31 and will include a survey to gain insight on public knowledge and perceptions of BWCs.
The questionnaire has been developed to hear the community’s opinions on the use of BWCs in terms of police accountability, community safety, and privacy.
The information collected through the survey will assist the police service in evaluating body-worn cameras in our communities and gauge the perceptions, beliefs and concerns of our residents. The results will be shared at a future meeting of the Bradford West Gwillimbury/Innisfil Police Services Board and with the public.
“The use of BWCs is growing but before we make any long-term commitments to use these on a day-to-day basis it is crucial that we hear from our residents about the use of body-worn cameras," Chief Andrew Fletcher.
"Public insight can assist the police service and the Police Services Board to direct further discussions regarding the benefits, limitations, and costs associated with the technology.”
The survey will be open from May 6 to August 31.
Participation is anonymous and voluntary; participants have the option to answer all questions or some questions, and can leave the survey at any time.
To participate in the survey click here.
Feature image via South Simcoe Police
