The Manitoba RCMP says it has nearly completed its provincewide rollout of body-worn cameras, with 98 per cent of front-line officers now equipped with the technology as part of ongoing efforts to boost transparency and accountability.
The only remaining detachment still to receive cameras is Berens River, where a new building — complete with the required technical infrastructure — is scheduled to open next week.
In a statement, the RCMP said the cameras have already proven invaluable in day-to-day policing, evidence gathering and improving public trust.
“The body-worn camera has provided us with many useful tools that make everyday policing a lot easier,” said Cpl. Jenelle Hulan of the Manitoba RCMP Major Crime Unit. “Taking statements and obtaining photos of scenes, victims and suspects is extremely easy, and the apps are excellent in tracking our movement during an investigation.
“Overall, this is a tool we needed in front-line policing to increase transparency and trust for both police and the public. Having concrete evidence that is uploaded and stored in such an easy manner also makes life easier when completing court packs.”
The cameras are supported by a digital evidence management system that stores and organizes the growing volume of footage. With 638 cameras currently in use, the Manitoba RCMP has already collected 174,369 pieces of digital evidence, including videos, images, audio statements and documents. The service has also shared 1,510 digital case files with Manitoba Prosecutions — figures the RCMP says are increasing daily.
Assistant Commissioner Scott McMurchy, commanding officer of the Manitoba RCMP, said the cameras have already strengthened investigations and helped modernize police work.
“Without a doubt, body-worn cameras have quickly become an incredibly beneficial and important tool for our officers,” he said. “The evidence collected through video footage has directly contributed to numerous investigations and has helped our organization become more transparent.”
