York Regional Police encouraging residents to register security cameras

Security camera registry helps police with investigations

Yorkregion.com
Nov. 14, 2019
Aileen Zangouei

York Regional Police is asking residents and business owners across the region to partner with them in community safety by signing up for the new security camera registry.

The registry gives members of the community the option to let York Regional Police know they have installed residential or commercial security cameras, which may assist police if a crime occurs in that area.

When police investigate a crime, officers often canvas neighbourhoods or plazas for security cameras that may have captured images of suspects or criminal activity. This is a lengthy process requiring time and resources.

The registry began June 3, and aims to facilitate police investigations by helping officers identify and locate cameras before they begin canvassing.

When you register your camera, police can see who in the area has cameras that may have captured footage and can ask them directly for help. In an investigation where every second counts, this proactive step could be crucial in helping to solve a case, make an arrest, recover property or even save a life.

Helpful details to provide when registering include camera locations, directions, video retention and the capability of sharing footage.

With just a couple of clicks, you can make your neighbourhood a safer place.

To register, visit yrp.ca and under the Crime Prevention tab, click on Security Camera Registry and complete the brief online registration form. Upon completing the form, participants will also be asked to verify their email address to complete the registration.

The registry was developed in partnership with members of the Integrated Strategic Community Advisory Council (ISCAC), a civil advisory group partnering with police to improve community safety.

“Community members must be active partners alongside their police service to ensure York Region remains the safest place in Canada to live, work and play,” said ISCAC chair Aubrey Zidenberg.

The registry doesn't grant police direct access to your cameras, as they must seek your permission to view and use the footage.