Registering cameras to fight crime

The Kern County Sheriff’s Department is looking for assistance from homeowners with their Camera Registry Program that is aimed at making neighborhoods safer.

According to Public Information Officer Angela Monroe, residents can help the Sheriff’s Office prevent and solve crime by being their digital eyes and ears.

Residents can partner with the Sheriff’s Office as part of their voluntary civilian camera registry. Surveillance cameras already keep homes and businesses safer, and this program gives residents the chance to keep their entire neighborhoods even safer.

You can register your camera with the KCSO so that in the event of a crime in the area, they will know you have video footage. The information will help deputies contact you quickly and identify those suspected of committing crimes. Other law enforcement agencies across the U.S. are using similar programs.

To be a part of the program, you just have to register your camera online at kernsheriff.org, give them your contact information and tell them what kind of surveillance system you have.

This is a voluntary program and residents are under no obligation to participate.

Once you register your cameras, you will get a confirmation email initially, and then annually. You will only be contacted again if a crime happens in your area. Sheriff’s Office personnel will request a copy of your surveillance video that may help in an investigation.

This program is being met with enthusiasm in the local area. Victor Medina, a Shafter resident, said he thinks this program is a great idea, almost like neighborhood watch. “We have a camera system and I would love to think that there are other homes with cameras working together to keep our neighborhoods safe.”