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Axon

CASE STUDY

Community Cameras Help Crack String of Burglaries in Columbus, Georgia

In Columbus, Georgia, the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) played a pivotal role in halting a series of neighborhood burglaries. Thanks to their thorough investigation work and use of the Columbus Connect program, a growing network of public and private security cameras, the Columbus Police Department was able to gather timely intelligence and make a key arrest. This case highlights how strategic use of technology and community partnerships can quickly turn investigative tides.

The Incident

Over the span of several weeks, at least a dozen convenience stores reported break-ins occurring overnight between 2:00 and 6:00 am. While investigators thought the crimes were connected, there was little physical evidence to help them find and track the suspect.

Using the suspects patterns, Columbus investigators passed the case to their real-time intelligence center. An analyst spent hours looking at roadway cameras and found the same car present at or near all of the break-in locations at times consistent with the crimes.

Using these visual leads, the RTCC was able to:

  • Identify and track a suspect vehicle through multiple locations
  • Track and apprehend the suspect

Technological Assets Utilized

  1. Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC) Surveillance + Community Connect Cameras
    Community-submitted camera access enabled near-instant access to critical footage, helping police track suspect activity across the city.

  2. Integrated Video and License Plate Data
    Footage analysis and vehicle data allowed police to pinpoint the car involved in multiple burglaries, ultimately connecting it to a group of suspects.

Outcome

The Columbus Police Department arrested the suspect connected to the burglaries.

Implications for Businesses and Communities

This success story demonstrates how businesses and residents can contribute to public safety by registering cameras through Community Connect. Columbus PD stated that the investigation would have taken months to investigate by visiting each store, but took only hours using camera footage instead.

Conclusion

The string of burglaries in Columbus was swiftly curtailed thanks to collaborative technology and strong community involvement. The Axon Connect program continues to prove that shared security is smarter security.