The Saint John Police have introduced a new tool to help keep neighbourhoods safe, and they are asking for your help. The Safe Neighbourhood Camera Registry (SNCR) is a new, voluntary program that allows residents and businesses to register their exterior security cameras with the police force.

This initiative aims to create a map of camera locations across the city, which can significantly speed up investigations when a crime or public safety incident occurs. By participating, you help police quickly identify potential sources of video evidence without having to canvass door-to-door.

How the Registry Works

Signing up for the SNCR is both free and completely voluntary. When you register your outward-facing security camera, you are not giving police direct access to your video feed. Instead, you are simply letting them know that a camera exists at your location.

If an incident happens in your area, police may contact you to ask if you can voluntarily share footage from a specific time frame. This allows officers to gather evidence more efficiently, saving valuable time and resources. The goal, as stated in the official police media release, is to streamline investigations and improve public safety outcomes.

A Partnership for a Safer Saint John

Police Chief R.M. Bruce emphasized the collaborative nature of the program. “Policing is a collective effort through collaboration and partnerships,” he said. “The SNCR initiative provides another opportunity for the Saint John Police to work together with our citizens to provide a safe, secure, healthy city.”

By registering your camera, you play an active role in crime prevention and investigation, strengthening the partnership between the community and the police force.

How to Register Your Camera

If you are a resident or business owner with an exterior security camera, you can register it by visiting the official Safe Neighbourhood Camera Registry page on the Saint John Police website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the police have live access to my cameras?

No. Registering your camera does not give police any direct access to your system or live feed. You will only be contacted by police to request footage if an incident occurs in your vicinity.

Is there a cost to register?

No, the program is completely free to join.

Is this program mandatory?

No, participation is 100% voluntary. You can also ask to be removed from the registry at any time.

What happens after I sign up?

Your camera’s location will be added to a secure map. The Saint John Police will only contact you if they need to request video footage for an investigation near your property.