Collingwood/Blue Mountains OPP officers are sporting some new gear.
As of Feb. 3, Collingwood OPP are now using Axon 4 body cameras, in a move being rolled out in OPP detachments across Ontario. The cameras have already been in use in east and west regions, and now work is underway to roll them out in the OPP’s central region, which includes Southern Georgian Bay, Collingwood as well as Huronia West, Nottawasaga and Orillia detachments.
Collingwood OPP media officer Sgt. Wesley Staddon just got his camera on Tuesday.
“It’s the size of two cell phones together. It’s fairly easy to use,” said Staddon. “When you’re under stress, your perception will be enhanced. It’s not about someone being wrong. The video can show an objective view.”
“It’s for everyone’s safety,” he said.
The cameras are produced by Axon Enterprises (formerly Taser International), and are linked to the OPP’s digital evidence management system– also run by Axon – that collects, manages, and shares video evidence. Authorized users of the system include police, but can also include crown attorneys and other justice sector partners. Other types of evidence stored on the system include 9-1-1 audio, interview room camera video and evidence photographs.
Previously, these types of evidence were shared on USB drives or DVDs.
Staddon said the cameras are always technically running, although when an officer pushes the button, the video will start being saved from 30 seconds prior until the officer turns it off.
The footage collected is automatically stored in the cloud-based system, however access to the files is meticulously tracked and authorized users are logged any time they access the system. Police could choose to release body camera footage to the public if it’s deemed in the public interest during an investigation.
OPP officers are still required to take notes and are not permitted to access the footage in order to write notes.
“The video will help clarify what transpired,” said Staddon.