In an effort to combat rising crime in the nation‘s capital, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has announced the launch of a program that will provide free dash cameras to people who spend significant time behind the wheel.
The cameras will be provided by the company DoorDash, which donated $500,000 to the program, and will be available later this summer to drivers who work for food delivery or rideshare services.
“Advancing the safety of our entire community is incredibly important to everyone at DoorDash,” said John Horton, a spokesman for the company. “We look forward to taking this bold step with Mayor Bowser and the Metropolitan Police Department as we work together toward achieving a safer future for everyone in the District.”
Bowser said that the initiative was a way for the city to utilize all possible tools to fight crime, such as video evidence.
“This is the first time we’re launching such a program in D.C.,” she said. “It’s about using every tool at our disposal.”
The city is also currently running a security camera incentive program that offers a rebate of up to $200 per camera, with a maximum rebate of up to $500 per residential address, leading to the installation of more than 26,000 private security cameras on homes and businesses.
Bowser said that those who accept the cameras will be expected to provide video evidence to police if ever requested, which has already been a successful tool in the fight against crime.
“What our partners in law enforcement tell us is that video evidence is crucial in solving crimes and closing cases,” said Bowser.
In addition, the Mayor and DoorDash plan to work together to raise awareness about other preventive measures to reduce the risk of crime, such as never leaving a car running and unattended.
“By helping to keep people and property safe, we hope to make a difference for our community,” said Bowser.
By providing free cameras, D.C. leaders hope to make a dent in the area’s crime rate and foster a culture of safety in the city.
