The Arlington Police Department launched a new program called Connect Arlington and its goal is to provide police with surveillance footage more quickly to help them respond to crimes and arrest suspects.
Arlington Deputy Chief Steve Williams says residents can go online to the Connect Arlington portal and sign up for the Community Camera Registry.
“When a crime occurs, the suspect isn’t usually waiting at the scene for officers to arrive,” said Williams whose Technical Services Division is overseeing the Connect Arlington program. “Our chances of finding and taking that suspect into custody increase exponentially the sooner we’re able to identify them or their vehicle. That’s why we’re hopeful our residents and businesses will embrace Connect Arlington.”
The free registry will help officers quickly identify which cameras may have captured footage relevant to an investigation. There's also an option for businesses for a small purchase cost and annual subscription that can allow police to access their cameras in real-time to help them solve crimes.
In case people are wondering about privacy issues, officials say registration does not give the department live or unfiltered access to residential cameras.
“I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – crime is not just a policing issue,” said Chief of Police Al Jones. “It’s a community issue. We need the community’s help and support to address crime in our city. One of the most impactful ways our residents and businesses can do that is by providing us with quick access to surveillance footage when an incident occurs.”
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