Police Launch Survey On The Use Of In-Car Cameras
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is launching a new public survey to seek feedback on the introduction of in-car camera pilot project.
“Other police services across the province and the country are already using this technology, and we have heard from both our officers and the public that they want to see it deployed within our Service,” said project lead Inspector Iain Pidcock. “But we want to make sure that we are considering community input before we implement anything.”
The OPS is conducting in-person consultations, but residents are encouraged to complete this short survey to offer their feedback at ottawapolice.ca/video. The survey will close on June 3, 2024.
Once we have collected feedback, OPS will launch an initial pilot project to ensure the devices function as expected and identify any issues prior to expanding it Service-wide.
This is part of the modernization of our Service with the introduction of our new Digital Evidence Information Management System (DEIMS). DEIMS is part of a program launched by the Solicitor General of Ontario and the Ministry of the Attorney General’s office to help create common resources for all police services across the province.
“DEIMS will allow us to securely accept things like video clips, images and other media to support you when you file a report with us,” said Insp. Pidcock.
Vehicles equipped with in-car cameras will also use wireless mics to capture audio when an officer exits the vehicle. Wireless mics are paired to the in-car camera and have a range of 1000 feet (300 m). When recording, a red flashing light will be visible, as well, every two minutes the wireless mic will beep. Officers will attach the wireless mics to their vest (chest) utilizing a RapidLock mount.
The OPS currently operates five vehicles with a three-external mounted camera ALPR system, that solely uses ALPR technology. More information about in-car cameras and ALPRs can be found at ottawapolice.ca/video. If you have questions, you can email DEIMS@ottawapolice.ca.
