CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – In an attempt to streamline investigations, the Albemarle County Police Department has launched an exterior camera registry program, NeighborLink, it announced Wednesday.

Citizens who have exterior security cameras and are open to being contacted by detectives who are investigating crimes that may occur in their area are encouraged to sign up, free of charge, at www.albemarle.org/police.

“ACPD NeighborLink is a simple tool to let our detectives know where cameras are located when they’re investigating a crime,” said Deputy Chief of Police Camille Stewart, who oversees the Professional Standards and Criminal Investigations Division, in a statement. “By taking just a few minutes to complete the form, community members can help us save valuable time when solving crimes.”

ACPD stressed registering does not give the department direct access to the cameras or even grant the department permission to view or use any footage. It’s simply a registry that allows the police to save time by knowing who might have camera footage that could aid in an investigation.