(CNN) Surveillance cameras and home security systems are becoming crucial tools for fighting crime, slowly replacing the neighborhood watch and its army of invisible street guardians. Some of the biggest stories in recent weeks have involved surveillance cameras providing police officers with evidence to help solve investigations. Here's why home security systems are gaining popularity among investigators:They're in real time and on your fingertipsTechnology is advancing every day and home security systems are getting more sophisticated. In Illinois, the O'Fallon Police Department asked residents to help fight crime by investing in neighborhood surveillance cameras and registering them with authorities. "Installing video surveillance is a great example of community-police partnerships and is something we highly value as a police agency serving our community."

Source: CNN August 30, 2018 10:18 UTC