Region of Peel – Peel Regional Police (PRP) is set to begin a phased implementation of body-worn cameras (BWC) and digital evidence management (DEMS) solution for all frontline officers.
PRP is equipping officers with the necessary tools to improve efficiency and effectiveness by leveraging both existing and new innovative technologies.
PRP is engaging community stakeholders and frontline officers with the intent of creating
clear and specific policies. This engagement seeks to strengthen trust and accountability, while also leveraging the technology to enhance service delivery in new and innovative ways.
Chief Nishan Duraiappah’s vision for Community Safety and Well Being (CSWB) goes beyond the implementation of a BWC solution, the police force said. Chief Duraiappah acknowledges that this initiative will not be solely relied upon as a primary tool to enhance the level of trust and transparency.
Deputy Chief Anthony Odoardi, Officer in Charge of Innovation and Technology Command said he was committed to ensuring that the needs of officers and the community are met through this tech innovation: “Our vision is to utilize available innovation and technology tools to enhance Community Safety and Well Being while demonstrating the professionalism of our frontline members.
PRP has taken a leading role in introducing the concept and framework for providing real-time enhanced services, utilizing BWC live-stream technology. These opportunities include utilizing embedded medical professionals in our real-time operations centre (RTOC) to assist frontline members in safely supporting persons in crisis.
We also look to provide social supports in real-time that would otherwise not be achieved through traditional response models.”
Peel Regional Police Association President Adrian Woolley is fully supportive of the BWC initiative: “The PRPA is excited for the body-worn camera project as this technology will be yet another tool showcasing our officers’ continued dedication and professionalism.”
PRP is also implementing a platform enabling the force to handle large volumes of data in a secure and cost-effective environment. This will be the foundation for all other data systems. Inspector Josh Colley, BWC/DEMS Project Lead, said that “with the current pandemic, PRP intends to interact virtually to ensure meaningful and collaborative dialogue to help inform our processes and policies. This collaboration will continue well beyond the initial test at our Airport Division.”
Chair of the PRP Police Services Board Ron Chatha said: “In August 2020, the PRP Services Board approved the PRP to negotiate with Axon Canada Inc., a world-wide industry leader in providing Body Worn Camera and Digital Evidence Management Solutions for public safety agencies.”.
The phased deployment of additional cameras, and related innovative support solutions, will commence in early 2021.