Lethbridge Police Equip Officers With Body Cameras in Phased Rollout

Lethbridge police officers are set to begin wearing body-worn cameras on June 15, marking a new phase in the department's adoption of the technology. The rollout will occur in stages, with front-line officers being the first to wear the devices.

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There’s also, when the camera is on, there are indicators like a red light.

While officers will strive to inform the public when they are being recorded, it is not a mandatory requirement. Chief of police Shahin Mehdizadeh noted that the cameras have visible indicators, such as a red light, when active. Training emphasizes activating the camera immediately upon arrival at a call. "What we’re trying to teach them is, they arrive at a call, seatbelt off, camera on," said Staff Sgt. Kyle Meyers.

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What we’re trying to teach them is, they arrive at a call, seatbelt off, camera on.

Recordings will be stored in police databases for at least a year, potentially longer depending on the content. Meyers stated that the cameras will remain on during most interactions with the public, in compliance with privacy laws and implemented policies. The service anticipates an annual cost of around $950,000 for camera maintenance, specialized staff, and other related expenses. Axon Public Safety Canada has supplied 165 cameras and a digital evidence management system. By the end of 2026, all uniformed members and peace officers will have body cameras, with plainclothes officers having access when needed.

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That (camera) will stay on during the majority of (an officer’s) interaction with the public, in compliance with our privacy laws and policies we’ve implemented.