Residents With Outdoor Security Cameras Needed for Block Watch

The Hinsdale Police Department is implementing a new program this week called "Block Watch." The purpose of the program is to enlist the help of residents who have home outdoor video cameras to solve neighborhood crimes.

Police have often found when canvassing a neighborhood after a crime has occurred that a home video system may have captured a picture of a suspect or a vehicle. This can be a valuable lead that can help in an investigation and may lead to an arrest, police said..

The Block Watch program is a voluntary. Residents who have outdoor surveillance cameras are encouraged to register their cameras with the Hinsdale Police Department. 

Should a crime occur in a neighborhood police will ask residents  to check their camera systems to see if they captured a picture that may aid in a police investigation.

There is no charge to participate in the program, and Block Watch participants will be kept confidential.

"This is neighbors helping neighbors" Hinsdale Police Chief Bradley Bloom said. "We have always said the best neighbor to have is a nosey neighbor willing to call the police when they see something suspicious in the neighborhood. Like the nosey neighbor, home camera systems are always watching and we would like to use that resource.”

Residents with home surveillance systems interested in registering their cameras can completing an online form on the Village of Hinsdale website.

Police also encourage residents who currently do not have video surveillance systems to consider purchasing one, as prices have fallen substantially in the last few years and now offer easy installation with the use of wireless technology. Video surveillance is an effective complement to existing home alarm systems to protect your property, and most manufacturers now allow remote monitoring via smartphone when integrated with your home network.

Chief Bloom stated:  "For us home surveillance systems are a force multiplier and a resource we need to take advantage of. Catching criminals is not possible without the help of the community, and this program is expected to be perhaps one of the most effective initiatives we have developed to partner with the community in our efforts to reduce crime."

Residents are also reminded to immediately call 9-1-1 if they should see something suspicious, or if somebody unexpectedly may come to their doorstep that is lost and looking for directions. Burglars often ring doorbells to check if anybody is home, and their unusual behavior should be a cue of a potential ruse of a plan to burglarize your home.

"Residents often are hesitant to call 9-1-1, or instead call the non-emergency number, because they don't wish to cause false alarm,” Chief Bloom said. “We would rather have hundreds of calls of suspicious activity that are unfounded than to have a resident not call when they see something that doesn't seem right."

For more information about Block Watch or to register your outdoor security camera, contact Investigative Assistant Nancy Anetsberger by email at nanetsberger@villageofhinsdale.org or by phone  at 630-789-7080.

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Source: Hinsdale Police Department