WRPS expanding CCTV camera use through provincial funding
Posted Apr 22, 2025 06:22:15 AM.
Last Updated Apr 22, 2025 10:41:06 AM.
Waterloo regional police are expanding the use of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras with help from provincial funding.
The Ministry of the Solicitor General is transferring $100,000 to the regional police to expand the use of CCTV cameras and Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology to help in the prevention of serious crimes.
The program aims to reduce gun and gang violence, break-ins, and robberies by proactively and retroactively reviewing video footage of areas police have identified as crime “hot spots.”
“We aim to fortify WRPS’ recently launched Crime Suppression Strategy with a CCTV program to reduce gun and gang violence, robberies, break and enters, and other serious crimes across the Region,” said the Waterloo Regional Police Service in a statement to 570 NewsRadio. “Utilizing both CCTV and Automated License Plates Readers (ALPR), WRPS’ vision is a growing network of integrated technology that will enhance safety and security across the Region. We will be implementing a phased-in approach that we hope to expand through shared partnership.”
Officers made use of CCTV cameras on St. Patrick’s Day weekend in Waterloo to gauge the size of crowds on Ezra Avenue and Marshall Street.
The funding is part of a provincial effort to expand the use of CCTV equipment across 20 police services in Ontario.
