RCMP body cameras to cost $131M, though many experts doubt they help

It will cost $131 million to equip all RCMP officers with body cameras, says the Parliamentary Budget Office. But many experts say there is no evidence the cameras improve policing.

The Canadian Press

OTTAWA — Outfitting RCMP officers with body-worn cameras at 700 detachments will cost an estimated $131 million over five years.

A parliamentary budget officer costing note says RCMP are expected to purchase 12,500 camera subscriptions for use across the country.

The price tag for the camera and digital evidence management system was based on data from the Toronto Police Service.

The note says that the Mounties could face higher costs in rural and remote detachments.

There were calls for officers to wear the technology last year during global demonstrations demanding more police accountability.

Some experts say there isn’t enough evidence to prove the cost of the cameras results in improved policing.

RCMP body cameras to cost $131M, though many experts doubt they help

Related stories

Singh demands Afghan interpreters' families be allowed into Canada as Taliban surges

Indigenous lobster fishing boats cut loose from wharf in Nova Scotia: First Nation

Ottawa won't share details on Afghan refugees due to security reasons: Mendicino

Take action

Make a donation