How a security camera registry program can help you reduce time on investigations

Video is an essential form of evidence for law enforcement agencies, and rapid growth in technology means that high-quality cameras are becoming commonplace. In the U.S., the average city has around six cameras per 1,000 people and the most-watched city has 49 cameras per 1,000 people, which is why requesting, collecting, and managing footage from private sources can be time-consuming and difficult.

A camera registry program allows businesses and residents to register their surveillance cameras, which means that you can request specific footage directly through the registry. That way, you spend less time requesting and managing video, and more time working on investigations.

 

 

Request, collect, and manage video evidence in less time

The process of retrieving recordings from cameras deployed by businesses and residents can vary. Some agencies track locations with privately-owned cameras on spreadsheets, while others create websites where partners — businesses or residents— can self-register in a registry program. In both cases, requesting evidence remains a manual process that involves having officers retrieve recordings by meeting with businesses and residents.

A camera registry program allows you to locate cameras near a crime scene, access the source’s contact information, and request specific footage, with just a few clicks.

Collaborate with the community to solve cases

Once a partner registers their location, their contact information is made available to authorities. In the event of an incident nearby their location, investigators can electronically request footage related to the matter. The participant can then choose what is shared. A camera registry program allows you to build a relationship with businesses and residents in your community, based on trust and communication, as it empowers them to support investigations at their own discretion.

A camera registry program provides a new way to collaborate with the public to collect evidence and conduct investigations. Once a video request has been sent out, partners have the choice to accept the request and upload the relevant footage without the lengthy back-and-forth of traditional video evidence requests.

Securely manage video evidence from a central location

A digital evidence management system is the backbone of a camera registration program, as it allows you to centralize participants' locations, as well as the video evidence gathered from requests. By including a participant's location, their contact information, and the number of cameras on site, officers can identify sources of interest and request evidence that would otherwise have to be collected in person, saving time and resources that can be shifted toward closing the case. 

It also allows you to maintain a chain of evidence by tracking who requested footage, who accessed it, and when. That way, you can ensure that video is only accessed by authorized users while saving the audit trail as proof of compliance. Video can also be deleted after a defined period if you no longer need to keep a record of the copy.

How does Genetec Clearance work?

Genetec Clearance™, our digital evidence management system, allows you to create a central application where you can build your own registry program. With the Genetec Clearance camera registry, you can also customize enrollment forms and embed a form on your website so that you can promote your program and encourage businesses and residents to register.

Creating your own camera registry program is easy. Visit our webpage to get more details and see how Genetec Clearance works.