Lawrence Police Launch New High Tech Platform to Solve Crime

Fusus Camera Integration Aims to Boost Public Safety, Community Trus

The Lawrence Police Department is teaming up with public safety technology company Axon to roll out a new video integration program aimed at making the community safer and more connected.

Through a platform called Fusus Connect Lawrence, residents and business owners can voluntarily register their private security cameras with police. The idea: if a crime or emergency happens nearby, officers will know where to ask for footage.

“This gives us better eyes on what’s happening, faster.” said Lawrence Police Chief Rich Lockhart. “It’s about helping our officers respond smarter, more efficiently, and helping the community feel more secure.”

Residents interested in registering their cameras or learning more about the program can visit connectlawrence.org. Registration of your camera location is completely free.

The Connect Lawrence system works in two ways. First, it allows residents to simply register their cameras. That doesn’t mean police can see live footage or even access it— it just means they know the camera exists and can request video if needed.

For those who want to go a step further, for a cost, Axon is offering Fusus CORE devices. These allow private cameras — like those on homes, storefronts, or apartment buildings — to connect directly to LKPD’s Fusus platform, allowing officers to get eyes on the scene as soon as the call comes in. Participants remain in control, can turn the feed on or off, and select which cameras are shared with the police department.

“We want this to be a true partnership,” Lockhart said. “Nobody has an obligation to share anything, but those who choose to can really make a difference.”

Lawrence is one of the latest cities to adopt the Fusus platform since Axon acquired it last year. Departments across the country have reported faster emergency response times, better evidence collection, and improved coordination during crises.

Axon, known for developing body cameras and tasers used by police across the country, says privacy and accountability are key parts of the system. All access to footage is logged, and participants can see when and why video is requested or accessed.

The department plans to begin outreach efforts later this summer to garner participation in the program.

“This is not about surveillance,” said Lockhart. “It’s about preparedness and partnership. When something happens, we want to solve it quickly — and if your camera can help, that’s powerful. That community-police connection exemplifies our goal of making Lawrence safe and secure.”