Have Security Cameras? Here’s How You Can Help Billings Police

You know that doorbell camera you installed for peace of mind? Or those security cams around your shop? Turns out, they could be helpful not just for you but for your whole neighborhood.

The Billings Police Department has a program called Project Eyes on the Block, and it's all about teaming up with everyday residents and business owners to make our community safer.

What the Program Actually Does

Project Eyes on the Block creates a voluntary partnership between the public and the police. If you have surveillance cameras and something happens nearby like a crime, an incident, even suspicious activity, officers can reach out and ask to review your footage. It’s a way to help solve cases faster and more efficiently, without giving up any of your privacy or control.

You’re Not Giving the Police Access, Just a Heads Up

Signing up doesn’t mean police can tap into your cameras. You’re not giving them remote access, and there’s no obligation to hand over video. What you're doing is simply letting the department know, "Hey, I’ve got cameras. If something happens around here, feel free to reach out." That’s it.

If an officer thinks your footage might be helpful in a specific case, they’ll contact you directly to ask if you're willing to share it.

Why It Matters

According to Sgt. Nate West of the Billings Police Department, the program helps bridge the gap between residents and investigators. “A lot of people have doorbell cameras and cameras set up around their residence or business,” he said. “By signing up, the resident is basically saying that if something occurs, an officer can contact them to review footage to see if anything tied to a crime or incident was caught on camera.”

And sometimes, it’s that one little clip that leads to a break in the case.

How to Sign Up

If you're interested in joining Project Eyes on the Block, there's a quick online form to fill out. You’ll be asked for your name, address, phone number, camera brand, and how many cameras you have. The information is only visible to police officers and community service officers within the Billings Police Department.

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No Pressure, Just an Extra Tool for Safety

Again, this program is completely voluntary. Even if you sign up, you’re never required to hand over footage. Officers will only request it if something happens near your property, and they’ll always contact you directly first.

“It could be as simple as us showing up, looking at their video and seeing there’s nothing there,” said Sgt. West, “or asking for a copy of it.”

Eyes on the Block, Peace of Mind for the Community

Project Eyes on the Block is one more way for neighbors to look out for each other and help law enforcement when it really counts. It’s not about surveillance, it’s about being part of a community that’s invested in keeping Billings safe.

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If you’ve got cameras and want to help out in a low pressure, high impact way, this just might be the program for you.