Brantford Police are preparing to launch a new Real Time Operations Centre (RTOC) aimed at giving frontline officers more information during emergency calls and active incidents. Officials said the centre will bring together existing technology, information and specialized police resources to support police responses. As part of a partnership with the City of Brantford, authorized RTOC personnel will be able to access existing city-owned CCTV cameras in public spaces during emergencies. Police said the access will be incident-driven and limited to designated personnel. “For example, where a serious emergency incident occurs in a public area covered by existing city CCTV, authorized RTOC personnel may access the relevant live feed on an emergency-only basis,” a media release read. “This may assist police in locating a person in distress, missing vulnerable child, violent suspect or otherwise providing responding officers with timely situational awareness to support their response.” The cameras will not be continuously monitored, police said. Footage will be retained for 72 hours and will otherwise be recorded over unless it is preserved as part of an investigation. The RTOC will initially have access to city camera feeds in Brantford’s downtown core. Police said access could eventually expand to other areas based on operational needs and public safety considerations. “The Real Time Operations Centre is about using technology and information strategically to support our officers and provide better service to our community,” said Chief Jason Saunders. “Our goal is to improve our ability to respond to incidents, enhance public safety, and make sure our resources are being used where they are needed most.” The service said the RTOC and its associated systems and data will operate in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, including the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Police also said the service will follow guidance from the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario. “The Brantford Police Service recognizes that the introduction of new technology in public spaces raises important questions about privacy, oversight and how information is used,” the release read. “Community members will have an opportunity to learn more about the RTOC, ask questions, and provide feedback as the initiative moves forward.” Additional information about the Real Time Operations Centre will be made available on the Brantford Police Service website www.brantfordpolice.ca.
