Hinds County government, business and law enforcement officials announced the Hinds County Safety Camera Initiative, implementing a comprehensive public safety technology initiative leveraging  911 Camera Sharing.

Speaking at a press conference at the Hinds County Emergency Operations Center, officials said the collaborative effort unites government, educational institutions, churches, businesses and neighborhood organizations in a community-supported public safety program.

Security cameras throughout Hinds County are equipped with 911 Camera Sharing technology that gives 911 dispatchers instant access to view footage from pre-designated, shareable cameras in the immediate vicinity of the emergency. This real-time visibility multiplies the dispatcher’s ability to assess a situation, allowing them to better inform and guide first responders on the ground.

The system has already helped deter illegal dumping in some Hinds County areas and helped law enforcement in investigating criminal incidents.

“The program is specifically designed to use technology in a smart, cost-efficient way to deliver measurable outcomes for residents and safeguard our officers,” said Robert Graham, president, Hinds County Board of Supervisors. “This is also a way to assist law enforcement with criminal investigations.”

In the initial phase, 72 Brivo Eagle Eye solar-powered security camera cabinets equipped with 911 Camera Sharing have been installed throughout Hinds County, including the city of Jackson, the town of Terry, eight neighborhood HOAs, one church and the areas around Jackson State University and Jackson Public Schools.

The Hinds County Safety Camera Initiative is designed to deter crime, increase officer safety, enhance student safety, accelerate emergency response and incident investigation, reduce illegal dumping, improve neighborhood cleanliness and amplify neighborhood pride and confidence.

Cameras participating in the Hinds County Safety Camera Initiative are not available for public viewing and are not continuously monitored. Camera video access is limited to trained 911 professionals and only available during a verified emergency involving a location with a participating camera that has been authorized for sharing. The dispatcher cannot access camera credentials, make any changes to the system, or download footage, ensuring privacy and security.

Designed and installed by Wilson Technology Inc., a Jackson, Miss.-based security integration firm, the safety camera system is inclusive and expandable. Any business, school or house of worship can join the program, regardless of whether they are existing Brivo Eagle Eye customers. Organizations do not need to purchase new cameras to join the program.

“Wilson Technology is committed to the safety and security of our community and our state, which is why we’re actively working with other local businesses to join the Hinds County Safety Camera Initiative,” said Fredrick Wilson, CEO, Wilson Technology Inc. “We are also working with other Mississippi counties, municipalities and universities, which have seen the success of the Hinds County project.”

Dean Drako, CEO, Brivo, added, “The Hinds County Camera Safety Initiative is a powerful model for other jurisdictions seeking to unite their communities and technology for modern public safety, which reflects the vision of our company and this product.”