Cocoa Police Camera Registration Program Launched

The Cocoa Police Department launched a new program encouraging residents and businesses to register their private security cameras. The Community Camera Registration Program aims to create a database of surveillance systems across the city, providing law enforcement with advance knowledge of camera locations.

Police Chief Mike Cantaloupe announced the program, stating that knowing camera locations in advance will significantly speed up investigations. "Video is everything these days," Cantaloupe said. "If we know in advance where these cameras are located, it will certainly speed up our investigations and help us solve crimes." The information collected will remain confidential and assist patrol officers and detectives in gathering evidence for criminal investigations, suspicious incidents, and missing persons cases.

The initiative is part of the department's broader Community Watch Program and aligns with the national "If You See Something, Say Something™" campaign. By identifying camera placements, police can more efficiently request and obtain footage. The program offers citizens and businesses a way to voluntarily assist in deterring crime and promoting public safety.

Residents and business owners can register their private security cameras through a secure webpage on the Cocoa Police Department's website. This creates a resource for official police use, contributing to community safety.