Preparing RCMP body-cam evidence for court will be monumental task, prosecutor says

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is in the process of implementing the use of body-worn cameras for 90 per cent of frontline members across the country within the next year. While this technology is expected to provide valuable evidence for criminal cases, there are concerns about the significant impact it will have on the workload of prosecutors.

Shara Munn, president of the New Brunswick Crown Prosecutors Association, stated that prosecutors are already struggling to keep up with current cases, and the introduction of body cameras will result in a “huge influx of work.” She emphasized the need for additional resources and support to effectively manage the volume of audio and video data that will be generated by the cameras.

The body cameras, which will be worn on officers’ chests, will capture audio and video footage that will be uploaded at the end of their shifts and stored on a digital evidence management system. The RCMP believes that the cameras will help build trust between police and communities, address public complaints, and enhance evidence collection.

Christopher Schneider, a sociology professor at Brandon University, highlighted the potential challenges associated with processing the large amount of data generated by the body-worn cameras. He noted that while the cameras offer evidentiary value, they may not provide a complete depiction of events. Schneider also raised concerns about the need for additional funding and personnel to review and analyze the data effectively.

Brian Sauvé, president of the National Police Federation, acknowledged that while there is excitement about the implementation of body cameras, there will be an administrative burden in reviewing and preparing the footage for court. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that police officers are not taken away from their core duties to manage the additional workload.

Donna Kellway, president of the Ontario Crown Attorneys Association, shared her experience with body-camera evidence in Ontario and emphasized the importance of having adequate resources to review and analyze the data effectively. She highlighted the need for increased transparency, accountability, and public safety in the criminal justice system.

Overall, while the introduction of body-worn cameras has the potential to enhance evidence collection and accountability in policing, it is essential to address the challenges associated with managing the increased workload and data volume. By providing the necessary resources and support, law enforcement agencies and prosecutors can ensure that cases are properly investigated and prosecuted without compromising public safety.