RCMP in Halifax, across Nova Scotia rolling out body cameras

Nearly 20 RCMP officers in Halifax are now equipped with body cameras, with plans to expand the program across the region in the coming months. Last year, approximately 60 officers in Nova Scotia participated in a pilot project for the cameras, including some in the Halifax area. As of now, about 18 officers within Halifax Regional Municipality are using the body cameras.

Supt. Don Moser, the officer in charge of Halifax RCMP, addressed the city’s board of police commissioners on Wednesday regarding the implementation of body cameras. He mentioned that training for new front-line officers is currently taking place in Musquodoboit Harbour and with members of the Community Action Response Team. The training will then be rolled out to detachments in Sheet Harbour and North Preston in January, followed by Tantallon, Cole Harbour, and Sackville officers in February and March.

The phased approach to introducing body cameras in different communities has been well received, with Moser stating that the RCMP has been engaging with various communities to address concerns and questions regarding the use of the cameras. Residents have shown interest in understanding how long video recordings are stored, the security measures in place for video files, and when officers will be required to wear the cameras.

The RCMP plans to equip a total of 600 front-line officers in Nova Scotia, including 150 in the Halifax region, with body cameras by next spring. Once an officer completes the necessary training, they will be issued a camera to wear while on duty. The cameras will be utilized during most service calls and investigations, including mental health calls and protests, but will not be used for 24-hour recording, surveillance, or intimate searches.

In addition to the RCMP, Halifax Regional Police are also considering implementing body-worn cameras. The force estimates that it would cost approximately $2.4 million per year, plus staffing expenses, and these details will be deliberated during the municipality’s upcoming budget season.

Overall, the introduction of body cameras in the Halifax area aims to enhance transparency and accountability within law enforcement operations, with the goal of ensuring the safety and well-being of both officers and the community they serve.