Home security cameras could be big help to Orland cops

By Jeff Vorva 

Residents of Orland Park could have a hand in solving crime in the village.

The board of trustees unanimously approved to move forward with a voluntary security camera registration program at its Jan. 4 meeting. It’s expected to start on Feb. 1.

This program gives citizens and businesses a chance to assist the police by allowing them to use footage from security cameras that they own.

“This will save time for investigators,” Trustee Sean Kampas said. “I know there are a lot of folks out there who have these doorbell cameras and want to contribute. This is a great way to go about that.”

The program does not allow the police automatic access to the cameras, it only provides information that a camera is present and at a home or business and how to contact someone for access to the footage.

“Traditionally, one of the first steps in a criminal investigation is to canvass the area security cameras, which may have recorded relevant information for the police,” a village document said. “During this phase of the investigation, an officer will walk or drive through an area looking for residences or businesses that have security cameras.

“While this program will not eliminate the need to perform this step, it will allow an officer to have immediate information that someone has a camera in the area.”

The document said it is easier to prove cases when video is involved.

“In recent years, technology has become a very important factor in solving crime. Security camera systems have decreased in price and have become much more user-friendly,” it said. “Because of this, many more businesses and citizens have installed security cameras on their property.

“The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office has always inquired about footage when attempting to obtain felony charges. As history has shown, crimes that occur with no security camera footage, but still have other pieces of evidence, have a more difficult time in obtaining felony approval than crimes captured on security cameras.”