SMILE, YOU'RE ON EPS CAMERA

On Monday, the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) started issuing body-worn cameras to its officers as part of a service-wide roll out. A small group of officers started wearing them for a pilot project in July 2023, after the provincial government directed police agencies across Alberta to work toward adopting body-worn cameras. Officers will be trained and start wearing the cameras over the next "several months," the release said. EPS expects remaining "public-facing" units to get cameras in the coming year, depending on budget.

Deputy Chief Darren Derk said body-worn cameras are a helpful tool when it comes to police investigations and interactions. Wearing the cameras builds trust with the public.