As part of our ongoing commitment to use technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our operations, the Guelph Police Service recently launched our new remotely piloted aircraft system program.
An RPAS is a power-driven aircraft designated to fly without a human operator on board. It is a tool that can enhance police operations in a variety of scenarios including searches for missing persons, collision reconstruction, intelligence gathering, during tactical operations, and for evidence gathering processes.
The Guelph Police Service RPAS is a DJI Matrice M30T. The M30T system includes high resolution RGB and thermal cameras, a laser rangefinder system, and dual speaker/spotlight payloads. The system has a 40+ minute flight time, 15-kilometre flight range, high wind resistance and a weatherproof rating.
The RPAS is operated only by members who have been issued an advanced flight operations pilot certificate (VLOS) by Transport Canada. Pilots are required to complete a minimum number of flying hours to maintain their proficiency.
Situations when use of the RPAS might be beneficial are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and flight operations will only be conducted if a legal authority exists and/or judicial authorization has been obtained. The GPS has conducted a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) in accordance with the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario’s guidelines to ensure all privacy risks have been considered and appropriate actions have been taken to address those risks.
We are committed to protecting the privacy of individuals in the operation of the RPAS, and to ensuring that all collection, use, disclosure and retention of personal information is in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA).
