A dozen homeowners and businesses in Bristol are now helping police solve crimes and catch criminals by sharing what they see from their homes or offices, through their surveillance cameras.
“We could reach out to those people with those businesses and look at their cameras to see if they picked up anything, the crime or something that may help us in the investigation,” Lt. Richard Guerrera said.
Guerrera said the surveillance cameras registered with police will help them capture criminal activity and could potentially be used to make convictions.
Wethersfield police started a similar surveillance camera database in March and say 30 homes and businesses have now registered their cameras with police.
“I'll sign up right away right away,” Jose Ramos said.
Ramos still remembers the sickening feeling after being the victim of a crime.
“Bad, horrible you know I didn't catch them,” Ramos said.
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Last November the contractor’s tools were stolen right outside of his front door. He estimates they were worth approximately $1000.
“Without that you can't provide for the family. Those tools cost money,” Ramos said.
While his Bristol home is equipped with surveillance cameras, they weren’t working the day he says criminals came onto his property.
“I keep an eye on them and it's recording, the DVR is recording 24/7,” Ramos said.
Soon Ramos’ cameras will be registered with the Bristol Police Department as part of the new Community Watch Team.
For Ramos, it’s a no-brainer, giving police a look through his lens to help catch criminals.
The program is voluntary. Those interested in registering their surveillance systems can do so through the city website.
