INDIANAPOLIS — As the City of Indianapolis continues to work on reducing crime, $500,000 is being set aside to help equip small businesses with b-link cameras.
The b-link program allows personal and business security cameras to join a network of live-stream video access for IMPD to utilize in the event of a crime or incident in the vicinity.
"The reality is we are never going to have enough police officers to address the crime in our community and this is a way that we can address crime in our neighborhoods," said IMPD Deputy Chief of Investigations Kendale Adams.
Currently, 33 businesses have more than 120 cameras registered. The program launched in 2019.
The cameras are intended to reduce the amount of time it takes to get footage from cameras to investigators. When someone calls 911, officers will be able to watch the incident as it happens —providing more information for first responders and ideally leading to quicker arrests.
Now, small businesses can apply for a one-time grant up to $2,500 to install and manage business cameras.
"Honestly I would have like to see the program grow farther than it is today. Any visibility that helps IMPD outside of our business is fantastic," Dave Andrus, the owner of Pearl Street Pizzeria and Pub, said. "We want to keep patrons safe but also my staff when they are leaving work at night."
Businesses can also connect already in-service security cameras or apply to offset the cost of camera installation through the b-link Pro program
For more information about the program or to apply for funding, click here.
PREVIOUS: Camera program helping police investigate crimes in Indianapolis
-
Gusty winds shake Indiana Friday: Parade changes, road closures and damage
A high wind warning and wind advisory on Friday across central Indiana have impacted Hoosiers with fallen trees, overturned semis and changes at the Saint Patrick's Day Parade in Indianapolis.
1 dead, 1 critically injured in shooting on near north side
IMPD reports that two victims are in critical condition following a shooting on the near north side of Indianapolis Friday.
Demolition of long vacant buildings clears way for apartment complex in Indy
Long-abandoned buildings at the corner of 22nd and Meridian Street in Indianapolis are coming down to make way for a new apartment development called M-22.
Concerns about TSA staffing, delays grow as spring break travel ramps up
TSA staffing concerns are growing at airports nationwide, including Indianapolis as a partial government shutdown impacts funding for the Department of Homeland Security.
