Beginning Wednesday, residents in certain high-crime areas are eligible for rebates if they purchase a security camera for home or business.
The goal is to reduce crime and give police another tool to both prevent and solve crimes.
The county is offering up to $250 per camera. A total of 1,000 cameras are eligible for funding.
However, to be eligible, residents must live in particular designated zip code areas. Generally, those areas include parts of Gaithersburg, Germantown, North Bethesda, Wheaton, Olney, Damascus and the Route 29 corridor.
The county is setting up an interactive map, and residents can input their address to see if they are eligible.
Besides the security cameras, the county also uses car license plate readers and drones to fight crime.
“It is something that is needed,” Councilmember Sidney Katz said during Executive Marc Elrich’s news briefing.
Elrich explained that police will not view any security camera footage live but rather will contact homeowners and businesses owners if a crime occurred nearby or if suspicious activity is noted to obtain the footage.
“We know our police department continues to be understaffed” while crime increases, added Councilmember Gabe Albornoz. “This will help close cases and also is preventative.”
Montgomery County Police Lt. Dan Helton noted, “I know that they are very helpful. The more cameras we get out there, I think, is very helpful.”
The Montgomery County Police Dept. has launched a Police-Private Security Camera Incentive Program with the purpose of deterring crime. Jordan Lindsay has the story. @albornoz_gabe @MC_Council_Katz @mcpdChief @mcpnews pic.twitter.com/C81VpFScEw
— Montgomery Council (@MoCoCouncilMD) November 15, 2023
