New ‘digital tools’ help police serve with confidence
A delivery of “state-of-the-art” body cameras to the Bermuda Police Service is expected to boost officer safety and improve transparency, the provider has said.
Digicel Business said that use of the devices was part of its mission to supply technology solutions for governments across the region.
The 200 Halos-brand body cameras replaced units already held by the BPS and use encrypted video and a cloud-based storage system to keep information protected.
“This deployment marks a significant step forward in strengthening officer safety, improving transparency and supporting more efficient policing through the power of digital technology,” Digicel Business said.
The company added that the project addressed three priorities for law enforcement: the capture of reliable evidence, the enhancement of officer safety “with clear, real-time documentation of incidents”, and the strengthening of public trust.
Shane McDonnell, the head of business solutions at Digicel, said: “By working with global technology providers, we’re delivering a high-performance body-worn camera solution that will transform policing in Bermuda.
“This rollout reflects Digicel Business’s ongoing commitment to equipping frontline services with the digital tools they need to protect and serve our communities with confidence and integrity.”
The BPS have been using body cameras since 2015, with the first 117 cameras put into use in October that year as part of an effort to improve evidence gathering and reduce the number of complaints against officers.
Police sought requests for proposals last November for body cameras and video storage systems.
The invitation asked for “200, 300 and 400 devices and an on-premise video storage solution that can effectively manage, retrieve and share digital video and audio”.
The Halos body cameras were deployed on July 21.
Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons said: “The replacement of body-worn cameras marks a critical step forward in our efforts to build public confidence and ensure transparency.
“This technology not only supports our officers on the ground, but also reinforces our commitment to fair, accountable policing.
“These cameras are not just about recording interactions; they’re about improving how we engage with the public, ensuring officer safety and providing clear, indisputable evidence when it matters most.”
He told The Royal Gazette: “The cost of the contract was around $550,000 — covering the acquisition of cameras and relevant accessories — as well as their maintenance and support for 36 months.”
Digicel Business added: “This rollout is part of Digicel Business’s ongoing mission to deliver secure, high-performance technology solutions for governments and enterprises across the region.
“By combining global innovation with local expertise, Digicel Business continues to support public sector digital transformation — driving safer, smarter communities.”