WHAT IS THE BROWARD SHERIFF’S OFFICE PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP (PPP)?
BSO’s PPP, launched in September 2021, is an initiative of the Broward Sheriff’s Office Real Time Crime Center (RTCC). The program represents a partnership which allows the public to install security cameras or use existing supported cameras in their business to directly connect with the Broward Sheriff’s Office RTCC (using an existing internet connection).
WHAT IS THE REAL TIME CRIME CENTER? WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SUCH A FACILITY?
The Broward County Sheriff’s Office Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC) opened in 2019 as a state-of-the-art facility operating under the BSO Threat Management Division. The RTCC leverages technology to provide critical information to first responders in the field and assist with investigations of criminal activity or other quality of life concerns.
WHAT ABOUT PRIVACY CONCERNS?
The Broward Sheriff’s Office Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) only accepts/integrates privately-owned cameras with footage of public-facing views. Also, although your cameras will record 24/7, the RTCC will NOT monitor your cameras 24/7. Your cameras are accessed by the RTCC based on the location of incidents reported to the 911 Center.
WHY SHOULD I PARTICIPATE IN BSO’s PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP (PPP)?
Historically, many business owners or private entities decide to share their video footage with responding officers or deputies when an incident occurs at or near their property. By joining BSO’s PPP, you are creating a virtual connection so that in the event of a critical incident or emergency, detectives can immediately see the scene before deputies or officers arrive. Participating in the PPP allows you to play a role in public safety and sends a clear message that you want to do your part to help make Broward County a safer place to live, work, and visit.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATING IN BSO’S PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP (PPP)?
BSO’s PPP is your opportunity to partner with the Broward Sheriff’s Office to improve varied public safety concerns, including criminal activity, fire, EMS, and severe weather events. Moreover, thanks to the RTCC’s connection to the 911 Center, participating in the BSO PPP offers a second set of eyes on the ground in real-time. Lastly, as a BSO PPP participant, you may choose to explore the potential for a financial incentive, such as an insurance policy discount.
WHAT ARE THE COSTS OF PARTICIPATING IN BSO’s PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP?
There are no fees from the Broward Sheriff’s Office to participate in the Public-Private Partnership. Installation costs will vary based on how many cameras you choose to install or if your existing surveillance system is compatible with connecting to the BSO RTCC. All payments are handled directly with your chosen installer and are not managed by the Broward Sheriff’s Office.
WHO OWNS THE CAMERAS? WILL I HAVE ACCESS TO THE FOOTAGE?
You own and maintain any cameras that you purchase, and you will have access to your footage just like a normal surveillance system. The RTCC will be able to access the footage through virtual connections on an as-needed basis (based on incidents as reported to the 911 Center).
HOW DO I INDICATE THAT I AM PARTICIPATING IN THE BROWARD SHERIFF'S OFFICE PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP?
A window decal is available free of charge to any participant of the program indicating that the property is integrated with the Broward Sheriff’s Office Real Time Crime Center.
WHAT IF A CAMERA GETS DAMAGED OR DESTROYED?
Your selected installer will have more details regarding potential insurance/repair plans for issues not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
ARE THERE DIFFERENT CAMERAS FROM WHICH TO CHOOSE?
You may discuss details about camera options and pricing directly with your chosen installer.
WHAT IF I HAVE EXISTING CAMERAS ON MY PROPERTY?
Some existing cameras may be compatible for RTCC integration with determination made on a case-by-case basis. For example, an encoder may be used to convert analog cameras for integration to the RTCC. You may discuss details regarding existing cameras with your selected installer.
DO I HAVE TO GIVE ACCESS TO ALL THE CAMERAS ON MY PROPERTY?
No. You will specify which cameras you share with the RTCC when the system is installed or adapted to connect to the RTCC.
