Beginning today, the St. Thomas Police Service will launch their 120 day Body Camera Pilot Project.
The pilot project is the first step the service is taking to equip St. Thomas Police Officers with body worn cameras as a part of their daily uniform.
Twelve, Axon body worn cameras have been secured by the STPS for this trial period, with Six cameras being deployed per shift while the other half are having the data downloaded and recharging.
The six deployed cameras will be rotated amongst Officers on Community Patrol.
Since not every officer on shift is being equipped with a body camera during the pilot, not every interaction with the public will be recorded.
“Body worn cameras will undoubtedly assist with improving the high-quality public service expected of police officers and enhance police accountability while at the same time increasing public trust. We have come so far in developing and strengthening relationships with our community, and in my opinion, body worn cameras will only boost our ability to improve the overall well-being of St. Thomas. We look forward to working with Axon and moving ahead as soon as possible.” says St. Thomas Police Chief Chris Herridge.
