Peel and York police have recently implemented facial recognition technology in their investigations, following consultations with the province’s information and privacy commissioner. The decision to use this technology was made to enhance and automate aspects of their current image comparison process.
Peel police have stated that the new system will scan and compare against lawfully-collected digital evidence stored in their databases. Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich emphasized that images used by Peel police have been stored in compliance with the Identification of Criminals Act, and the technology will not be used to scan or compare live footage from external sources. This technology is expected to improve criminal investigations and expedite mugshot searches with greater accuracy, thereby enhancing safety in Peel Region.
On the other hand, York police have also emphasized that images collected from social media or CCTV footage will not be part of their facial recognition program. Chief Jim MacSween highlighted the importance of collaboration with Peel Regional Police, noting that criminals operate across multiple jurisdictions and partnership between the two police services will enhance public safety in both communities. This joint effort is seen as a cost-effective approach to combatting crime effectively.
