Police looking into body cameras for front-line officers

WATERLOO REGION — Recent police killings and marches highlighting anti-Black racism has sparked renewed calls for officers to wear body cameras to keep them accountable.

On Friday, Toronto Police Chief Mark Saunders said he is going to “fast-track” plans to get front-line officers equipped with body cameras.

An online petition based in Toronto mandating the use of cameras now has tens of thousands of signatures.

Locally, Waterloo Regional Police said it is looking at the use of body-worn cameras for front-line officers.

“This includes exploring pilot project options that will determine a series of outcomes, including the cost and feasibility associated with the purchase and use of the technology. As well, training, technical issues, and privacy issues will also be considered as part of the review,” said police spokesperson Cherri Greeno in a statement Friday.

Greeno said the top priority for police is the “safety of residents within this community, as well as with the protection of our members.”

Greeno said police are “committed to strengthening public safety while being accountable and transparent to those we serve.”

Recent deaths of Black people, including the killing of George Floyd by a now former Minneapolis officer, led to mass protests across North America.

In Kitchener, thousands packed downtown streets to show solidarity and to highlight anti-Black racism and police brutality on Wednesday. A similar march is planned in Cambridge on Friday.