Nearly all of Chatham-Kent's (CK) frontline police officers are wearing body-worn cameras.
Chief Kirk Earley shared with CK News Today that 90 per cent of officers have a camera, with that number anticipated to hit 100 per cent by the end of February.
CK police officers started wearing them in April 2025.
The cameras are activated when officers are speaking with members of the public, including during traffic stops, calls for service, and enforcement activities.
"I think there's so much value in having that instant account of what took place," explained Earley.
One of the main reasons more police services are having their officers wear cameras is to ensure there's documented evidence of everything that happens during every police interaction.
For Earley, the cameras also help build the public's confidence in his officers.
"It builds that trust and legitimacy with our members and our community," he added.
According to the Chatham-Kent Police Service, all officers have received training on how to properly use their cameras. This includes when they should be activated and deactivated, and how to properly store all footage in accordance with privacy regulations and legal standards.
