Testimonials
When my partner first suggested the idea of in-car video systems, I have to admit I was skeptical. No court had ever questioned my evidence for such things as stop sign offences. As for officer safety, I was more interested in something that would prevent my death - rather than recording it. Reading the news one day, I came across a HUGE article about a teacher accused of 'inappropriate behaviour with students'. It was apparent that his career was over since, even if he were acquitted, the follow-up article would be tiny - hidden in the bowels of the paper - if it was even reported at all.
Law enforcement officers face similar challenges to our integrity and professionalism often. Too many accused feel the best defence is a good offence. They know our reputation is more vulnerable than our jaw.
We've only had these cameras about half a year and they have already been used at least twice to disprove claims of "hurtful" actions and "impatience". In both circumstances, officer conduct was shown to be highly professional and accommodating.
The WatchGuard system has found favour with Crown Prosecutors and envy from RCMP members who have reviewed its performance and uses.
The system is versatile - adaptable to any department's needs and the service has been outstanding. As a county patrol unit, we work the dirt road a lot and chip seal roads tend to develop truck eating potholes. Our units get hammered - and take it well.
Hindsight is 20/20 - and in hindsight, we chose right!
Rob Ridley
Mountain View County Patrol
I had one traffic stop where two young guys were in my face disputing the speed and saying that they were going to beat it because "I wouldn't show up anyway etc" and they were out of their vehicle confronting me at my patrol unit demanding to see the radar reading. I informed them that the whole traffic stop and their conversation was being audio and video recorded. Their attitude changed immediately and they went back to their vehicle and that was the end of it. The driver eventually paid the ticket. Like they say "a picture is worth a thousand words" but a video is even better!! The system has been working great! I can say that I am very happy with this system and I have it in my budget for a second one for our other patrol unit in the spring.
John Bishop
County of Stettler Protective Services
Woodlands County was looking for a new camera system that would work well within our Department. Many different camera companies offered systems but they either didn’t meet our expectations or they were over priced. WatchGuard’s digital in-car camera system met the mark. The ability to write to DVD+RW and their pricing sold us, but what made it stand out was their service. No one else offered software upgrades at no charge (some companies even wanted around $4000.00 for their software). We are very pleased with the system and will be purchasing from them again.
John Elley
Patrol Officer
Woodlands County Patrol Service Alberta
By far [the WatchGuard] was the best bang for the buck and I am going to order another one next spring for our other new vehicle that will be arriving. The complete system was approximately $5700.00 and this includes the tax and shipping charges. I did extensive research into several cameras including the one we used to have which was the DVD-RAM system but that one cost double the price. The WatchGuard system is one complete combined unit and we love it. No problems with it and it is convenient to use and also very user friendly. If a person attempts to operate it and has difficulty, then he/she needs to go back to grade school so to speak. It’s like using the touch screen of the MDT but easier.
Cpl. Sheldon Pinsent
Canadian Military Police
Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador
I have considerable experience with cameras and monitoring equipment having previously worked in the investigational field. Based on my past experience I offer the following opinion:
WatchGuard has one of the better (if not best) plug and play systems, with excellent use of space and mounting options. The cameras are of good quality and in general the system is easy to use.
I am also generally impressed with the continuing R&D that WatchGuard has shown. There appears to be great growth potential for this system.
The durability of this system (aircraft type recorder) will likely be superior in the long run and under crash situations compared to server systems.
The superior customer service and equipment mounting/use has made me personally believe that WatchGuard is the current better choice for this type of system.
Gordon BEAGLE
Grande Prairie Enforcement Services
Grande Prairie, Alberta