The Cornwall Police Service (CPS) began its first phase of a body-worn camera pilot project May 29.
The CPS Board originally approved the purchase of body-worn cameras on Jan. 19, 2023. “They will be eventually worn by all front-line officers and will provide an unbiased and independent account of police interactions with the public,” says the police department.
In the initial phase, a controlled group of officers on each shift will be equipped with the device.
“The use of body-worn cameras will provide greater transparency between police officers and the community,” said S/Sgt. George Knezevic. “Body-worn cameras will significantly enhance public trust and accountability by offering transparent and objective records of police interactions.”
The body-worn cameras will be used to:
- Provide a visual account of police interactions
- Capture evidence as part of investigations and may streamline court proceedings by minimizing the time and resources needed to resolve a case
- Promote accountability and professionalism within the police service and support the fair administration and fair resolution of complaints against officers
All records and evidence captured by the body-worn camera will be stored on a cloud-based platform provided by AXON Canada.
