Frequently Asked Questions

You are giving away free security cameras?

YES! 

As part of the project, we have a limited amount of funds that will be used for providing residents and business owners in high crime neighborhoods with security cameras. Each grant funded camera will include installation, a crime camera, and two years of cloud storage. 

What's the catch?

To be eligible for a grant funded camera, you must: 

  1. Have a business or residence in one of the identified high crime neighborhoods
  2. Agree to maintain power and internet to the camera at all times
I am not eligible for a free camera, how can I participate in the project?

We have several options for participation. 

Register-A-Camera involves informing law enforcement that you have cameras at your home or business.          

Purchase-A-Camera involves purchasing crime cameras with the specific intent of sharing access to law enforcement

Adopt-A-Camera involves sponsoring the purchase of one of more crime cameras to be installed on a home or business in a high crime neighborhood. 

What is a regional crime camera program?

regional crime camera program is a public-private partnership wherein law enforcement agencies and communities coordinate to share technology and intelligence to enhance public safety. All crime cameras purchased through the River Cities Crime Camera Program will be accessible to partnering law enforcement agencies. 

Why is a regional camera program needed?

People who commit crimes do not always stay within the boundaries of a single jurisdiction. A regional program is a cost efficient way to share technology, collaborate on investigations, and reduce duplication of efforts

Why can't I integrate my existing security cameras instead of purchasing new ones?
The majority of security cameras have proprietary platforms, which limits the ability to integrate cameras into the video management systems used by law enforcement. While it is doable, integrating existing systems often requires costly additional hardware, and more often than not advanced ("smart") capabilities are lost during integration.  

In most cases, law enforcement do not need access to an entire system of cameras at a location. Strategically placed cameras at entrances, exists, and vulnerable locations are most beneficial in real time. 
Why would I want to purchase a camera if I already have a security camera system?
The benefit of purchasing cameras is that officers will have instant access to live or recorded footage should the need arise. For example, if a gas station cashier calls 911 and reports a fight in the parking lot, dispatchers will be alerted to all shared cameras at the location and in surrounding areas. Dispatchers can then relay vital information to officers in route to the scene, such as how many people are involved, who is involved, and if anyone has a weapon. Dispatchers will also be able to provide additional assistance while officers are on scene by continuing to monitor available camera feeds and informing officers of suspect movements not otherwise seen in the field. 

The camera registry is for those who want to particiapte but do not want/does not have the capability of purchasing additional cameras. While the registry does not allow for real time access, it does provide for the creation of a map of camera locations. The purpose of the camera registry is to save critical time time during active investigations. Rather than knocking on every door in the vicinity of a crime, officers will be able to cross reference all locations to identify cameras that may have captured footage. Once identified, officers can contact the owners of registered cameras to either ask the home/business owner if their camera captured something specific or arrange a time to meet and view the footage. 

I feel relatively safe in my neighborhood, am I wasting my time or money if I purchase or register a camera?

Not at all! The best camera is one we never have to access. With that being said, you never know when something is going to happen. Having a camera available should it be needed will only benefit you and the responding officers. 


One option people often find appealing is purchasing a camera and having it installed to capture their driveway and passing cars. This option provides coverage for your house, but it also allows officers to use license plate recognition software to locate missing or wanted vehicles/individuals.

How do I register my cameras?

Click Here to register your cameras

What is to stop law enforcement from spying on me and my family?

Safeguards have been put in place to ensure no one is taking advantage of anyone who has a camera connected with law enforcement. The video management system tracks every login, every camera accessed, and the length of time a camera is viewed. Logs are checked regularly and suspicious activity is dealt with according to established polices and procedures. Contact us if you would like more information about polices and procedures. 

I'm good, but I would still like to be part of the solution.

Adopt-A-Camera involves sponsoring the purchase of one of more crime cameras to be installed on a home or business in a high crime neighborhood. Contact us if you are interested in adopting a camera location.

Benefits of having sharing security cameras with law enforcement

Enhanced Situational Awareness

Security camera footage provides vital information to law enforcement during active crime scenes

Real Time Monitoring

Early identification of suspicious activity may lead to less crimes being committed 

Emergency Response

Monitor traffic and special events

Environmental Hazards

Flood detection and illegal dumping