OPP launch CAMSafe program in Perth County - Stratford Beacon-Herald

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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Cookson said Perth County OPP regularly rely on area residents and business owners for security footage to help identify suspects and as evidence in court. Recently Cookson said the use of surveillance cameras was instrumental during investigation into the vandalism of tombstones at a Mitchell cemetery and a probe into a break and enter and mischief at a North Perth business.

“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.

Police are asking anyone in the county with an active security surveillance system to consider registering for the program by visiting camsafe.ca and providing, at minimum, basic contact information and camera locations. Those who register can also provide additional information, such as the direction the camera faces, how footage is retained and screenshots of the camera view. Those who register can change their information and delete their account at any time.

“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.”

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