LAPORTE COUNTY, Ind. -- On Tuesday, the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office announced the roll out of Project STAR-CAM, a new program designed to help with investigations and searches.

Basically, Project STAR-CAM is a potential database made up of residents and business owners who register their doorbell cameras or other security video systems with authorities.

"By partnering with the sheriff’s office and registering a video surveillance system, agency personnel will have up-to-date information as to where systems are located throughout LaPorte County, the LCSO said. "In the event agency personnel need assistance in a specific area, they would access the database, meet with the homeowner or business owner, exchange further information, along with seeking permission to view the video surveillance footage."

The project is completely voluntary, and any information provided will be kept confidential.

"No one will have immediate access to a homeowners or businesses surveillance system without having gained prior permission/approval," the LCSO said.

Anyone who would like to take part in the program can scan the QR code within the image at the top of the article to begin the registration process.