Apr. 5, 2023, Edmundston, N.B. – The Edmundston Police Force is launching a pilot project to test the effectiveness of body cameras worn by patrol officers during their interventions. During the month of April and for a period of two months, four members of the Edmundston Police Force will test these body cameras on municipal territory.
This pilot project required the development of a comprehensive policy to address privacy and confidentiality concerns. This policy also makes it possible to specify the types of interventions during which police officers will use body cameras.
“The body cameras will be on at all times, but it will be up to the police officer to determine when to start recording,” said Chief of Police Steve Robinson. “An audible signal and flashing lights will let the police and members of the public know that the device is recording the intervention. It is a complementary tool to maintain order. It brings a different perspective on what happened, what the police officer saw and heard,” he adds.
For several years, the Edmundston Police Force has had camera and microphone systems in police cars. The police officers are therefore already familiar with the recording of their interventions.
“As a result of this pilot project, we will be able to make an informed decision on whether our members should wear this type of body camera or not,” concluded Chief Robinson.
Note that some provincial police forces have already adopted body cameras as work tools.
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