MANITOBA – The Manitoba RCMP says its provincewide rollout of body-worn cameras is almost complete, with nearly all frontline officers now equipped.
The service announced that 98 per cent of officers working in detachments across Manitoba are using the cameras. The remaining members without them are stationed in Berens River, where a new detachment with the required technology is expected to open next week.
Cpl. Jenelle Hulan, who works with the Manitoba RCMP Major Crime Unit, said the equipment has already made a noticeable difference in day-to-day policing.
“The body-worn camera has provided us with many useful tools that make everyday policing a lot easier,” Hulan said. “Taking statements and obtaining photos of scenes, victims and suspects is extremely easy, and the apps are excellent in tracking our movement during an investigation.”
According to the RCMP, the cameras are supported by a digital evidence management system that stores and organizes video and other material.
From the 638 cameras currently in service, the RCMP says it has collected 174,369 pieces of digital evidence, including videos, images, audio statements and documents.
The organization has also shared 1,510 digital case files with Manitoba Prosecutions.
Assistant Commissioner Scott McMurchy, the commanding officer of the Manitoba RCMP, said the impact of the rollout has been immediate.
“Without a doubt, body-worn cameras have quickly become an incredibly beneficial and important tool for our officers,” McMurchy said. “The evidence collected through video footage has directly contributed to numerous investigations and has helped our organization become more transparent.”
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