Sault Police Launch In-Car Camera Systems
Sault Police cruisers are now equipped with new in-car camera systems to enhance public trust, demonstrate accountability and transparency, and streamline investigations.
Each Patrol Services vehicle features an interior-facing camera that will record occupants in the back seat of patrol vehicles and a front-facing dash camera. These cameras will record interactions between officers and the public, providing valuable and objective evidence for investigations and prosecutions.
“Trust and accountability are cornerstones of effective policing,” said Hugh Stevenson, Chief of Police. “The implementation of in-car camera systems will ensure unbiased documentation of police interactions, enhancing the safety of both our officers and community members.”
Most officers assigned to Patrol Services are trained on the in-car camera system, with the remaining members scheduled to be trained in the coming weeks. Members will not have access to the in-car camera system until they have completed the necessary training.
After being trained on the new system, officers will inform community members at the start of an interaction that the in-car camera system is active and the interaction is being recorded.
The in-car camera systems are the latest initiative undertaken by the service’s recently implemented Digital Evidence Management System (DEMS) Unit. Members of the DEMS Unit are responsible for managing and redacting digital evidence to support investigations and prepare evidence for court proceedings.
Once all members have completed training on the in-car camera system, the service will initiate the next phase of its technological advancement: implementing body-worn cameras.
The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service ensures the use of this technology respects individuals’ privacy and adheres to the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The collection, retention, use, and disclosure of personal information will comply with municipal freedom of information and privacy protection legislation.