Security Through Surveillance

Security Through Surveillance (STS) is an innovative initiative in which the police department partners with businesses and homeowners to prevent and solve crime through the use of surveillance technology. The main program objective is twofold; first, to improve investigative efficiencies by employing registered surveillance cameras. Second, to strengthen and utilize the partnership that exists between the police and community. When a crime occurs, a resident or business may unknowingly record the crime, possible suspects, or an escape route the criminals used. If private surveillance cameras are not registered, the information captured is often lost to law enforcement personnel.

Participants in this program should be aware that the police department will not have direct access to the video footage captured on private property. Rather, officers will have awareness as to camera placement throughout the city in the event video footage is necessary to assist with an investigation.If a crime occurs in the vicinity of a residence or business with registered cameras, the police department will contact registrants to request a copy of their footage for evidence or investigative leads.

Register Your Surveillance Camera

Security Through Surveillance Training:

Next training date: 

Saturday, November 16, 2019 | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Elgin Police Department 151 Douglas Ave., Elgin 

Hosted at the Elgin Police Department. This training is free. 

Flyer information: click here

The department offers a specialized three-hour training program for homeowners and business contacts who would like to learn how to effectively utilize their surveillance cameras to prevent and solve crimes. Topics covered include:

  • Camera selection
  • Camera placement and its importance
  • Footage storage options
  • How the Technical Investigations Unit can assist with surveillance systems

The training also focuses on how business and homeowners can use already in-place camera systems to partner with the police for crime-solving purposes.

To register - CLICK HERE