Police seek security camera registry to aid in neighborhood crime probes

Dover Police would like to have a registry of those that have security cameras so they know who to contact in the event of an investigation into a particular crime in a specific area of the city.. (Courtesy photo)

DOVER - Dover Police announced on Wednesday the startup of what they call a "Virtual Neighborhood Watch" program they hope will strengthen the partnership between police and public while helping officers investigate cases more efficiently.

The new program would utilize existing security cameras installed at business and private homes to help investigations into criminal activity.

Virtual Neighborhood Watch allows residents and business owners who have surveillance cameras to register their addresses or businesses with the Dover Police Department.

While Dover Police are not asking for live access to camera systems, they would like to have a registry of those that have security cameras so they know who to contact in the event of an investigation into a particular crime in a specific area of the city.

By having this information, it will help the investigating officers solve crimes faster and more efficiently.

Once participants register their camera with the Dover Police Department, they will only be notified if a crime or incident occurs in or around their neighborhood. The participants will be asked to check their footage for any activity. A camera mounted on a garage or home could make a critical difference in an officers' ability to identify a suspect or solve a case, police note.

The program is voluntary and participants can opt out at any time.

To register for the VNW, anyone can visit the Dover Police Department homepage and click on the Virtual Neighborhood Watch link (bit.ly/doverpolice) or email Sergeant Alex Mitrushi at a.mitrushi@dover.nh.gov