London police launching body-worn cameras

A London, Ont. police officer is seen wearing a body-worn camera. (Source: London police)

Police in London will be wearing body-worn cameras starting Monday.

As part of a phased rollout, the cameras will be worn by frontline officers, with the goal of enhancing accountability and transparency.

“The introduction of body-worn cameras marks a significant milestone in the modernization of the London Police Service (LPS). This technology not only promotes greater accountability for our officers but also reinforces our commitment to transparency and trust with the community we serve,” said Chief Thai Truong. “As we roll out this initiative, we are taking another important step toward fostering a safer city, strengthening community trust, and a more inclusive and secure London for everyone.

According to London Police Service, cameras will be activated during calls for service, investigations and law enforcement activities. They will be deactivated when calls, investigations and enforcement are complete, or when recording sensitive situations such as a strip search, in hospitals, schools and during religious or cultural ceremonies.

For those who may not want to be recorded, police said in public, officers do not require consent. In private spaces however, consent is required unless a warrant or urgent circumstances apply.

All recorded footage is uploaded at the end of each shift and the length of time it is kept is based on legal and police requirements, such as court cases or ongoing investigations.

“Officers cannot edit or delete footage. The system is designed to prevent tampering, ensuring the integrity of all recordings. Access is limited to authorized personnel under strict protocols,” reads the LPS website.

Audio is also only recorded when the camera is activated, which has to be done manually by the trained officers during enforcement or calls for service.

If a member of the public wants to access the footage, a formal request can be made under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection Privacy Act.