The head of the RCMP detachment in Mission, B.C., expresses gratitude that officers in his community will be among the first to utilize body cameras to document police interactions with the public.
Insp. Ted Lewko mentions that 44 cameras will be assigned to his officers starting next week, and he is optimistic that they will enhance officer safety, build trust with the public, and expedite the resolution of complaints.
Authorities revealed the introduction of the cameras in Surrey on Thursday, outlining how thousands of Mounties throughout the province will soon be equipped with the devices.
Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, in charge of the RCMP’s E Division in B.C., describes the initiative as the “largest and most ambitious rollout of body cameras across the province.”
McDonald explains that the request for body-worn cameras originated from “local, regional, Indigenous, and provincial leaders to address the overall necessity to bolster public trust” in law enforcement, and the cameras adhere to a national standard for RCMP members.
Mounties state that around 300 cameras will be distributed to officers in Mission initially, followed by other communities such as Tofino and Ucluelet on Vancouver Island, as well as Cranbrook, Kamloops, and Prince George.
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The law enforcement agency anticipates the nationwide implementation of body cameras to be finalized by the conclusion of next year.
