Saint John Police will not unveil body cameras on members this week, as was previously expected.
The Axon body cameras, which will be worn by all front-line officers, will now be unveiled sometime later this year.
Police Spokesperson Jim Hennessy, says the COVID-19 pandemic played a part in the delay.
“Given the COVID restrictions for travel, some of the training is still being conducted through video conference,” he said.
Since the purchase of the $770,000 body camera package, which includes training and software, the police force has completed its usage policy.
While the cameras will automatically turn on when officers are dispatched to a call, the training program includes ensuring officers are aware when they should stop the recording.
“We certainly understand there are situations when it may be relevant to stop recording,” Hennessy said. “That includes incidents involving children, victims, sensitive situations.”
While the cameras do have the ability to live-stream footage back to police headquarters, Hennessy said that the Saint John Police Force will not be using that technology.
The force says it will announce when the body cameras are ready to be rolled out.
SJPF anticipated to have the Body Worn Cameras activated by the first week of November. Our I.T. Team is working to ensure the new equipment can be utilized to its full potential.
A new activation date of the technology will be announced soon. pic.twitter.com/cOiR2s5dRJ
— Saint John Police (@saintjohnpolice) November 3, 2020
