The Gatineau Police Department is establishing a “security camera registry” and is requesting that business operators and homeowners with exterior cameras register them.
“Residents who register their cameras can collaborate with the Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau (SPVG) to assist police officers and investigators in advancing investigations after a crime has taken place in their neighborhood,” stated Gatineau Police in a release issued on Thursday.
The aim of the camera registry is to keep a record of community members whose images might be recorded by security cameras, with the intention of streamlining and simplifying investigations after a criminal incident.
Law enforcement frequently requests assistance from the community in probing criminal activities that might be captured by security cameras or dashboard recorders showing the event or individuals involved. This new program goes a notch higher by encouraging citizens to register their video systems.
The project drew inspiration from a comparable registry implemented by Trois-Rivières.
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In 2018, the Sherbrooke Police Department began utilizing surveillance camera footage to trace the paths of intoxicated drivers and pinpoint culprits involved in hit-and-run incidents as well as attacks occurring near establishments like bars. Additionally, various other law enforcement agencies within Quebec have implemented a system for registering surveillance cameras.
According to Gatineau Police, being part of the registry does not grant them access to security tapes. The individual who owns the camera needs to explicitly allow law enforcement to review the footage. Signing up for the program does not constitute permission, which can also be revoked at any moment.
Registered cameras must be placed outside and should keep their recordings intact. Eligible camera types encompass stationary cameras as well as doorbells equipped with cameras.
