Camera Registration FAQS
What is a Real-Time Crime Center?
A Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC) is a centralized hub that uses technology, data, and intelligence to assist public safety personnel in preventing and responding to crime more effectively and efficiently.
Why is the City launching an RTCC?
The RTCC is being launched to enhance public safety, improve emergency response times, reduce violent crime, and ensure officers have the most up-to-date information in the field.
How will the RTCC benefit the community?
It will help solve crimes faster, prevent violence through real-time alerts, and improve coordination among first responders. It also allows for proactive policing that is data-driven and responsive to community concerns.
Where is the RTCC?
The Real-Time Crime Center is located at the Providence Public Safety Complex.
What kind of technology will the RTCC use?
Tools may include existing cameras, license plate readers (LPRs), crime mapping software, social media and crime analytics platforms. All technology will be used in accordance with strict privacy and legal guidelines.
How many cameras will be added? How many does the city currently have?
While there is no current goal, the city current has access to over 100 cameras registered that are located on private and public buildings in the City of Providence.
Is the RTCC constantly monitoring people or neighborhoods?
No. The RTCC does not conduct 24/7 live surveillance of the community. It primarily focuses on safety in public spaces and responds to specific incidents or threats.
Who has access to RTCC data and video feeds?
Only trained and authorized personnel within the Providence Police. Access is tracked and reviewed regularly to ensure compliance with policies and procedures. Footage must be requested through the City of Providence’s records portal if it was accessed for investigation purposes.
What data is collected and stored and how is it used?
Data includes publicly available information, city-managed video feeds, private cameras through partnerships with the local businesses and the community and officer reports. It’s used to inform policing strategies and improve response effectiveness—not for surveillance. The footage accessed by the RTCC is available for investigation purposes and the retention of data depends on the technology associated with the camera system it was recorded on.
How will the RTCC protect my privacy and civil liberties?
Privacy is a top priority. The RTCC follows local, state, and federal laws, and all systems have usage auditing, data retention limits, and oversight policies in place. Camera access is always voluntary, granted only with your consent, and used solely during emergency situations or to respond to specific criminal activity at your location.
Can my cameras be accessed without my knowledge?
No. Both the Providence Police Department and Axon Fusus policies require the camera owner to give explicit written permission to access cameras for any reason. Camera access and settings are also entirely controlled by the camera owner.
How is the RTCC different from traditional policing?
The RTCC supplements community-based policing by providing officers with real-time intelligence, allowing for more informed, strategic responses rather than delaying investigations.
How can I get involved or learn more? You can attend a public information session, call 3-1-1 or email connect@fusus.com to submit questions or feedback.
