NACOGDOCHES, Texas — To combat crime and enhance safety in their community, an East Texas police department is taking an innovative approach by partnering with local businesses and residents to create a network of surveillance cameras across the city.
Nacogdoches, often regarded as the oldest town in Texas, is embracing modern technology to reduce crime rates. Community Eyes uses existing surveillance cameras at various businesses and homes within the city.
"They give us their information, such as their name, phone number, address. If they have cameras, then we're able to quickly ascertain if there's a crime in an area. If there's a camera system in that area that can help us solve it without having to put boots on the ground," explained Sergeant Brent Ayres with the Nacogdoches Police Department.
Although the Nacogdoches Neighborhood Eyes program is relatively new, it has already shown positive results, thanks to the cooperation of local businesses like Ree’s Jewelry.
"We've helped the police department multiple times with particular incidents like collisions or hit and runs. Without us, that investigation could go on for quite a while and may never be solved," said Joshua Rasmussen, head jeweler at Ree's Jewelry.
The benefits of the program go beyond solving crimes. It also contributes to making the community a safer place to live and conduct business.
"It does take the community to participate in the program," Ayres said.
Residents and businesses interested in participating in the Community Eyes program can fill out a form at the police station.