Body Worn Cameras RFP process moves to hands on testing phase

The Calgary Police Service is moving forward with the hands on testing phase of the Request for Proposals (RFP) for Body Worn Cameras.

Front-line officers in a variety of locations throughout the city are testing 47 cameras from three different suppliers. Hands on testing will take approximately three months. Data from the testing will then be reviewed and evaluated prior to selecting the highest rated vendor.

It is anticipated that 250 cameras will be deployed by the end of the year based on the specifications listed in the RFP. Full deployment of cameras to frontline officers will be completed by the second quarter of 2019.

The hands on testing allows officers to test the technology as they carry out their policing duties and interact with the public. Footage captured on the cameras during this time will be considered evidence.

Deployment of BWCs is guided by five key principles:

1. Enhance transparency, public trust and confidence.
2. Collection of evidence.
3. Enhance officer accountability and professionalism.
4. Protect officers from unfounded allegations of misconduct.
5. De-escalate a situation.

The Calgary Police Service is not able to provide further details about the hands on testing phase or conduct media interviews in order to protect the integrity of the RFP process.