Collaboration with Bradenton Businesses Enhances Camera Network to Aid Police in Crime Resolution

BRADENTON, Fla. (WFLA) — The Bradenton police department has established a real-time crime center that enhances surveillance capabilities in high-traffic areas, such as the riverwalk and downtown. This initiative utilizes a network of cameras that not only includes city-owned equipment but also integrates privately owned cameras, offering law enforcement immediate access to crucial footage.

These advanced surveillance tools have proven invaluable for investigations involving serious incidents, such as a recent road rage altercation that resulted in both a crash and a shooting, alongside a homicide investigation at Rossi Park.

According to public information officer Meredith Censullo, this combination of resources significantly accelerates the crime-solving process. “The benefit of having the camera integration from businesses is that we can immediately access their video. Whether we need it in real-time or for incidents that occurred even just minutes or days prior, we can access it.” She assured that they always inform business owners when accessing their footage and that consent has been granted as part of their program participation.

The first business to join this initiative was Paddywagon Irish Pub located downtown. Co-owner Tony Hoskins emphasized that joining the program was an obvious choice. “For the other owners in this block and in the City of Bradenton, if you care about your clientele and the community, you should wholeheartedly support this program. It’s a minimal cost for a high-value solution focused on safety.” He noted that the presence of the cameras tends to deter criminal activities, leading to a noticeable decrease in crime rates.

According to police officials, security footage from Paddywagon has already been instrumental in a double shooting and a burglary case in downtown Bradenton. “With Paddywagon being our first business partner, the leads generated from their cameras have been tremendous. It not only enhances security for businesses but certainly contributes to community safety. We’re solving crimes much faster than before, typically within hours or days,” Censullo elaborated.

In addition to the business camera integration, the police department offers a separate camera registry program for residents. This system allows homeowners to sign up and register their external home and doorbell cameras, although police cannot access these feeds directly. If necessary, officers may reach out to homeowners to request video footage as part of their investigations.

For further information about these programs and how to participate, please visit this link.

Key Information

• Location: Bradenton, Florida
• Initiative: Real-time crime center with integration of public and private cameras
• First Business Partner: Paddywagon Irish Pub
• Purpose: Accelerate crime solving and enhance community safety
• Distance for Video Retrieval: Real-time and historical access up to 15 minutes or more prior
• Resident Camera Registry: Allows homeowners to register their cameras, with police able to request footage if needed
• More Information: Visit this link.