Guidelines for Recording with Body-Worn Cameras (BWCs)

Body-worn cameras (BWCs) should remain active until the interaction with the public has concluded, the situation has been resolved, or the officer has left the scene. This ensures the entire encounter is documented. In certain situations, officers should continue recording until the individual has been handed over to custody or released.

Recording on Private Premises

When entering private premises, such as a home, officers should continue recording if necessary to gather evidence or ensure safety. However, if the situation is stable and there is no clear need to continue recording, officers should consider deactivating the camera to respect privacy. Any decision to stop recording must be accompanied by a documented explanation.

Deactivating BWCs in Sensitive Locations

Officers should deactivate recording in locations where privacy is a significant concern, such as:

• Hospitals
• Religious institutions
• During interactions with vulnerable individuals (e.g., children or victims of sexual assault)

Recording should only continue in these settings if there is an overriding need to gather evidence or ensure safety. Officers must document their decision to continue or stop recording in such cases.

Responding to Requests to Turn Off BWCs

If an individual requests that the BWC be turned off, officers should carefully consider the request. While the request may be honoured if the situation permits, officers must balance the individual's privacy concerns with the need to capture evidence. The request and the officer's decision—whether to continue or stop recording—should be fully documented.

Balancing Privacy and Necessity

If an officer believes that continuing to record is no longer necessary or could result in an unwarranted intrusion into privacy, they may choose to deactivate the camera. This decision must be accompanied by a brief explanation of the reasons, which should be documented for accountability.