The RCMP in Coaldale and Picture Butte are being equipped with body-worn cameras. (Photo: Taber Police Service)

By David Opinko

RCMP in Coaldale & Picture Butte to be equipped with body cams

May 26, 2025 | 9:36 AM

More local police officers are getting body-worn cameras.

The Coaldale RCMP, which also serves Picture Butte, will equip its members starting in June 2025.

The initiative is part of a nationwide rollout of body cams, which started last fall. The RCMP is deploying 10,000 to 15,000 cameras across the country.

The service says the local officers have completed comprehensive training.

“Body-worn cameras are increasingly used by police agencies worldwide for their ability to provide accurate, unbiased audio-video documentation of police interactions. Your Alberta RCMP is proud to implement this technology to meet the ever-changing policing needs of Albertans and uphold public safety,” reads a news release from the RCMP.

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Some of the benefits of this technology, according to the RCMP, include:

• Enhanced accountability and public trust: Video evidence collected will provide an independent, and objective way to capture interactions between the community and police officers.
• Improved police-community interactions: Cameras encourage respectful encounters and reduce tensions.
• Better evidence collection: High-quality audio and video footage supports investigations and prosecutions.
• Efficient complaint resolution: Objective records expedite investigations, saving time and resources.

The Taber Police Service announced earlier this month that its officers are wearing body-worn cameras as well.

READ MORE: Taber Police officers now wearing body cams