Lloyd RCMP fully equipped with body cams

RCMP officers in Lloydminster are now equipped with body cameras.

Insp. Brian Nicholl, Lloyd's detachment commander, says this step is about transparency and real-time evidence.

“All frontline responders in Lloydminster have body-worn cameras now,” Nicholl said. “Every uniformed member has one, except a few still in training.”

The deployment began in late November and Nicholl says the cameras offer a glimpse of what officers see during incidents.

“They capture real-time evidence,” Nicholl explained. “It gives you a view of what an officer is seeing at the time.”

The cameras aim to improve accountability for both the police and the public. They are also expected to provide clear evidence in investigations.

“Body-worn cameras have been used for years in other police forces,” Nicholl said. “Now, we are mandated in Canada to use them.”

The technology, however, brings challenges taking into account privacy-related issues.

“Privacy issues and vetting increase the time required in certain cases,” Nicholl said. “There’s no editing of raw footage, but sensitive details like personal information are blurred or muted.”

Officers are still required to write their notes by memory after each call. According to Nicholl, they can't use the body camera video right away for note-taking.

Anyone can request footage through an Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) request, however, there are strict rules about releasing personal details.

“People won’t be able to get footage directly from officers or police stations,” Nicholl said. “It has to go through the ATIP process.”

Some residents feel apprehensive about being recorded, but Nicholl stressed public interactions are already frequently captured through traffic and business surveillance cameras.

Nicholl emphasized that body cameras are turned on only during investigations, including everyday interactions with the public.

“Officers are supposed to activate them during incidents,” he said. It may occasionally not be the first thing they think of.

“In dynamic situations, like running after a suspect, it might not happen immediately.”

He notes as the technology is new, it will take time for the officers to get used to turning them on.

The cameras ensure accountability during police interactions, from serious incidents to minor issues like bylaw complaints.

“This is accountability for both sides,” Nicholl said. “It should help reduce public complaints against officers while holding everyone accountable.”

Body cameras also offer clarity in heated situations, where memories can differ from what actually happened.

“Sometimes people don’t realize what their actions actually were,” Nicholl said. “Body cameras provide an accurate record.”

He acknowledged initial apprehension from both the public and officers.

“I think most people, including the public, are now looking forward to it,” Nicholl said. “It’s about building trust and ensuring fairness on all sides.”

If you have further questions about the body camera's and policies you are encouraged to head to the RCMP website.

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