LERA backs Winnipeg Copwatch’s call to change WPS policy
Written on April 6, 2010
The Law Enforcement Review Agency (LERA) has responded to Winnipeg Copwatch’s complaint about illegal camera seizures and arrests of camera-people by recommending the Winnipeg Police Service change its policy.
In a letter to Winnipeg Copwatch, LERA Commissioner George Wright says:
[T]wo issues have been identified that may have caused or contributed to an alleged disciplinary default. They are:
- The detention of citizens using recording devices.
- Seizure of cameras and cell telephone recording devices.
He goes on to say:
I am writing to Keith McCaskill, Chief of the WPS and Glen Laubenstein, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) City of Winnipeg recommending that appropriate changes be implemented to ensure that
police officers are aware of their legal authorities relative to these
two issues.
Winnipeg Copwatch is also today initiating another complaint around the issue of police intimidation of people with cameras with Aborginal & Community Law Enforcement, and is still waiting to hear back about another complaint made with the Ombudsman.
Chief McCaskill has so far ignored Copwatch’s attempts to address the issue with him directly. We’ll soon see if he’s open to recommendations and oversight from public bodies.