Community Connect Milwaukee security camera registry launches

MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee police want more eyes on crime, launching a new initiative Thursday for people to register home security cameras with the department.

MPD Chief Jeffrey Norman is encouraging people across the city to take part in Community Connect Milwaukee. It allows residents to register their home or business security cameras with the department.

"Now I can anticipate a question: Is this some sort of dystopian technology that infringes on rights and privacy?," said Mayor Cavalier Johnson. "The answer to that question is ‘no.’"

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The program is volunteer based. Residents can register their camera or integrate it with the department. Registering it means the department will know the location of a camera that may have captured a crime. Police would then have to ask for the footage.

"I think it will act as a deterrent," Johnson said.

Integrating video security means the camera can provide live feeds to the department. MPD is partnering with a security company called Fusus. Businesses would pay that company to install a device to their network, allowing MPD to access the live feed.

MPD said, even then, it will be at the camera owner’s discretion to share the footage – something that eases the minds of some residents.

"You wouldn’t want any invasion of privacy, and it sounds like this isn’t intended to do that," said Brian Lief.

Other residents said they are in favor of programs aimed at tackling crime.

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"Enough is enough," said Vonny Walker. "You need cameras everywhere."

MPD also said any video files provided will be used solely for criminal investigations. 

"I don’t think it’s the worst idea, but we will see what comes of it," said Elle de Felice.

Residents interested in taking part in the initiative can sign up online.