Provincial police have launched a new program in Perth County aimed at creating a database of residential and commercial security cameras to help local police with criminal investigations.
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When a police officer uses the CAMSafe database, they will see a map of the area. Officers can click on registered addresses to find the property owner’s contact information. If, during the course of an investigation, an officer would like to examine security camera footage from a given property, they can make a request to the property owner. Police cannot access security cameras or footage directly.
“CAMSafe … will act as a resource for police when investigating offences or crimes,” Perth County OPP Staff Sgt. Barry Cookson told the Beacon Herald. “The program was initially developed by Belleville police to act as a simple yet effective way of leveraging technology and community engagement to help protect communities and solve crime. Only officers have access to the CAMSafe database.”
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“Having a web-based database of camera locations within a community will not only reduce time officers spend searching for footage, but it may help play a pivotal role in a fast-moving investigation such as a kidnapping or robbery,” Cookson said.
“Having a surveillance system is a good way for home or business owners to add some protection for their property,” Cookson said. “The OPP supports programs that can be shown to help prevent crime and victimization, and improves public safety. (We are) committed to providing effective service and (we’re) continuously looking to collaborate with community partners and service providers.”
