Fredericton Police Force deploys body-worn cameras to all front-line patrols
Fredericton - (N.B.) - The Fredericton Police Force recently deployed 48 additional body worn cameras to its front-line patrols. This initiative aims to improve overall community safety and well-being, increase transparency and accountability in policing and improve evidence collection and documentation.
Body-worn cameras were first deployed to 12 front-line Fredericton officers during a 2017 pilot. As of June 28, 2023, all platoons are now equipped with body-worn cameras, which means a total 60 officers are now using the equipment.
“Increasing public trust and confidence in police is a priority for our organization,” said Chief Martin Gaudet. “The presence of a body-worn camera can be a powerful tool when officers are seeking to de-escalate critical situations and this equipment is a dependable way to resolve public complaints by providing an extra layer of accountability. Body-worn cameras also provide accountability by offering insight into officer conduct and performance. Most importantly, body-worn cameras are a demonstrated way of enhancing public and officer safety.”
The additional body-worn cameras represent an investment of $129,000 ($64,000 for the hardware, and $65,000 in licensing fees). Two additional administrative positions were created to support the Digital Evidence Management System, bringing the team to three positions. Governance, use and storage of all recordings are in strict compliance with the Right to Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the New Brunswick Police Act. The Fredericton Police Force has worked extensively on its procedures and policies with the New Brunswick Ombud to ensure strict compliance with all privacy legislation.
“Body-worn cameras were identified as a priority in our 2023-2025 Strategic Action Plan, as part of our plan to continue to modernize and optimize our assets to protect our residents and meet the current and future safety needs of our city, “said Chief Gaudet.
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Media contact:
Sonya Gilks
Public Information Officer
Fredericton Police Force
Fpf.media@fredericton.ca
506-460-2777