Sudbury police release timelines, costs for body cameras for all front-line officers

Police in Greater Sudbury plan a full roll-out of body cameras by January 2026. (File)

At its meeting Oct. 16, the Greater Sudbury Police Board will hear details of when officers will begin wearing body cameras.

In the planning stages since 2020, police announced last month that a pilot program will begin next year with some officers being trained to use them.

A report to the police board next week said the plan is to fully implement them by early 2026.

In 2021, police set aside $2.25 million to fund implementation of not only the cameras, but upgrades to stun guns and the collection and handling of digital evidence. The current budget estimate for both stun guns (conducted energy weapons) and body-worn cameras is $3.76 million from 2024-2030.

"By transitioning to a pooled deployment for both CEWs and BWCs, GSPS anticipates saving approximately $250,000 over the contract term, allowing for more strategic use of the allocated budget," said the report to the police board.

Each officer will be trained on how to use the cameras and handle the recorded data.

"The training framework incorporates an eight-hour course that emphasizes the lawful use and operational aspects of BWCs, integrating scenario-based exercises to enhance practical understanding," the report said.

"This approach ensures that members are not only knowledgeable about the technology but also adept in its application, adhering to privacy and human rights considerations."

Police will receive an initial shipment of 20 body cameras in December of this year and conduct training first with officers in the traffic management unit and the emergency response unit.

They will begin using them for six months beginning in January 2025, and then spend another six months evaluating how they worked and doing audits to ensure their use are complying with guidelines.

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"This strategic start allows us to address any immediate operational challenges on a smaller scale, setting the foundation for wider deployment," the report said.

In addition, staffing needs in the digital evidence unit will be assessed to ensure data can be handled properly as the cameras are rolled out to all front-line officers in January 2026.

"The Greater Sudbury Police Service recognizes the importance of transparency and accountability in implementing new technologies, such as body-worn cameras," the report said.

"Our phased approach to the BWC rollout is designed not only to enhance operational efficiency but also to align with the expectations of our community for clear, open communication and responsible use of public resources."