Police Adding In Car Cameras

By 250 News

Prince George, B.C.- North District RCMP Traffic Services and the Prince George  Detachment  will be getting more on board cruiser cameras.

The new cameras will bring to approximately 450 the number of patrol-car cameras across B.C., with 260 new units to be installed in RCMP traffic-duty vehicles and 60 in vehicles used by the Province's 11 independent municipal police departments to promote road safety.

Here is the breakdown of  the  police unit and number of in car cameras to be installed:

• Prince George Highway Patrol  -  6  
• Prince George Detachment - 4
• Burns Lake Highway Patrol  -  2 
• Chetwynd Highway Patrol - 2 
• Dawson Creek Highway Patrol - 2 
• Fort Nelson Traffic Services - 2 
• Fort St. John Highway Patrol  - 3 
• Quesnel Highway Patrol - 4 
• Smithers Highway Patrol - 2 
• Terrace Highway Patrol - 4 
• Valemount Highway Patrol  - 2 
• Vanderhoof Highway Patrol  - 2

The number of  cameras to be added in the Prince George area will bring to 15 the number of  cruisers with the equipment.

"We embrace the addition of these cameras" says  Fraser-Fort George Traffic Services Sergeant Pat McTiernan "The cameras  help provide evidence in court as they provide a clear picture of the suspect" .  McTiernan says the cameras are automatically activated when the  officer turns on the flashing  red and blue lights, but can be turned on manually to  capture  activity before the lights are  activated. 

The cameras provide several other benefits:

* Documenting traffic violations in a more timely way, saving officers time in court.

* Confirming that officers have complied with procedures and policies.

* Providing training information for traffic officers and others in the justice system.

The patrol-car cameras will cost about $7,300 each installed. Police agencies will cover the minimal operating costs. 

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