Remotely Piloted Vehicle

The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) uses an Aeryon SkyRanger, a remotely piloted vehicle (RPV), to assist with a variety of law enforcement functions. 

The primary uses of the RPV are:

  • Collision scene reconstruction
  • Collecting evidence at crime scenes
  • Conducting searches for missing persons
  • Monitoring large gatherings
Other applications of the RPV are reviewed on a case by case basis and will only be conducted if legal authority and/or judicial authorization have been obtained.  We have conducted a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) in consultation with the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario 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 RPV and 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). 

The legal authority for collection of personal information by the RPV system is found in Section 28(2) of MFIPPA.  Under this section, the government is permitted to collect personal information if the collection is used for the purposes of law enforcement. 

All individuals have a right to access their personal information and general information resulting from use of the RPV.  If you have questions about making a request, please contact the Access to Information Unit. All RPV pilots receive training on how to operate the RPV as well as the theory of flight, weather, and privacy legislation.  Pilots are required to complete a minimum number of flying hours per month to maintain their proficiency. For more information about the use of the RPV, please call us at 519-570-9777 and ask to speak with the Field Support Branch Inspector. 

Status and flight updates for the RPV are available on twitter.

 

 

 

 

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