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VicPD Launches New Tool To Help Keep The Community Safe

Traffic Advisory
Date Published: 17 Apr 2025, Last Updated: 15 May 2025

Date: Thursday, April 17, 2025 Victoria, B.C. – This Spring, VicPD is launching the Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), which features advanced, cutting-edge technology designed to improve officers' ability to monitor public events and respond quickly to public safety incidents. The RPAS will be used to help create a safer environment for everyone during some community events or unfolding emergency situations.  “VicPD provides policing support to more than 50 public events each year, in addition to an increasing number of demonstrations. The RPAS is the next step in our strategic plan of supporting community safety, preventing crime, and contributing to community vibrancy,” said VicPD Chief Del Manak. Piloted by certified Transport Canada pilots from VicPD, the RPAS will be used to enhance public safety, aid in crime prevention, and ensure public order during some special events, protests, rallies, or any other events that requires police attendance or involvement for the safety of the community. This new tool will help officers identify potential incidents unfolding on the ground, providing real-time insights that allow them to distribute resources more efficiently and make quick decisions to keep residents of Victoria and Esquimalt safe.  

The RPAS is VicPD’s Latest Tool to Enhance Public Safety During Events and Demonstrations 

The RPAS camera does not record by default. If recordings need to take place to gather evidence, or capture an incident, the public will be notified, and that data will be stored for 30 days or longer. No information is collected during an event unless a criminal investigation or public disorder incident occurs.  The deployment of the RPAS is an integral part of VicPD’s efforts to support community safety and is in accordance with B.C. and national privacy legislation. If you have questions or concerns about the RPAS camera deployment, please email [email protected]. [embed]https://youtube.com/shorts/izVj2iG9vTE?feature=share[/embed]

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