Abbotsford PD unveils community camera registry to support and expedite investigations

ABBOTSFORD – The Abbotsford Police Department says it is rolling out a voluntary community camera registry whose goal is to support criminal investigations and improve response efficiency.

In a statement from AbbyPD spokesperson Sgt. Paul Walker, police say residents and business owners in Abbotsford can play an essential role in supporting community safety by participating in Project Clearview, a voluntary, community-focused initiative that helps police quickly identify and access video evidence following criminal incidents or public safety events.

“By increasing awareness and participation, Project Clearview helps officers reduce investigative delays and strengthens partnerships between AbbyPD and the community,” Sgt. Walker said.

Sgt. Walker says that in the aftermath of an incident, officers often seek out nearby video footage that may assist an investigation, which can require substantial time and resources.

“Project Clearview supports investigations by helping police more efficiently identify where relevant CCTV camera footage may be available, enabling officers to focus their efforts where they are most likely to be effective,” Sgt. Walker said.

Participation in Project Clearview is voluntary, and individuals always retain control over whether CCTV footage is shared with police. Police say Project Clearview is designed with privacy at the forefront. Participation in the program does not give police access to live feeds, private systems, or personal devices, and does not involve continuous monitoring.

By taking part in Project Clearview, community members help:

• Support public safety in their neighbourhoods

• Assist police in conducting more focused and effective investigations.

• Reduce the need for broad canvassing following incidents

• Help prevent the spread of sensitive material on social media that may compromise investigations

Sgt. Walker says Project Clearview is one of several initiatives supporting AbbyPD’s commitment to proactive, collaborative policing and safer communities.

For more information about Project Clearview and to register, visit: www.abbypd.ca/project-clearview