Provincial Police in Oxford begin body camera rollout

Pictured is one of the new body-worn cameras being rolled out by the Oxford OPP. (Police photo)

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Oxford Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Detachment is now equipped with body-worn cameras (BWC).

In a news release, the OPP supports the implementation and use of any tools or technologies that enable improved evidence collection, demonstrate greater accountability and transparency, and enhance public and officer safety in Oxford County and beyond.

“After a successful rollout of in-car cameras (ICC), which incorporated an Automated Licence Plate Recognition (ALPR) system, the Oxford OPP, along with other detachments within the West Region, are rolling out BWCs for each officer.”

Body-worn cameras are positioned on the front of an officer’s vest and are clearly visible to anyone the officer interacts with. When the camera is in standby mode, it shows a green ring with flashing lights; once recording begins, the lights switch to flashing red.

“The full deployment of the BWCs in Oxford is expected to be complete as soon as possible, though officers who have finished training will begin using them immediately,” added the release.

Oxford OPP Constable Matt Foster said all officers have or will receive training.

“Training is currently underway, and once training is completed, they will be worn by all officers. When an officer attends training, they are required to wear the BWC immediately afterwards.”

As part of a broader investment in technology for Ontario police services, the provincial government is funding the OPP’s acquisition and implementation of body-worn cameras and in-car camera systems.

“The total cost is approximately $4 million, which will be covered through the OPP’s annual operational budget,” explained Foster, who added adopting new technologies is an example of the provincial police’s commitment to accountability, transparency and professionalism among its frontline members.

“ICC systems deliver added benefits from a public safety and investigative perspective, particularly in light of the OPP’s mandate for policing provincial highways. The Oxford OPP remains dedicated to ensuring public safety and providing proactive, innovative policing in partnership with our communities. We value your role in helping build safer communities for everyone,” he added.