What is FUSUS?

FUSUS is a camera integration platform that allows the monitoring of video feeds from multiple public and privately-owned sources, in one place, all in real time. FUSUS provides the potential for police and other community members to jointly reduce and prevent crime using real-time information.

Individuals and businesses already share video footage with the Columbia Police Department (CPD), upon request, but FUSUS would greatly streamline this process. Currently, officers either visit a residence or a business to request footage or otherwise reach out to individuals who could potentially have footage. This can take hours or days. With FUSUS, officers could immediately access footage from businesses that have already agreed to share their cameras with the Department.

Camera access will be provided on a voluntary basis only.

If cameras are registered, CPD must seek the owner’s permission to view footage for a specific incident. If cameras are integrated, the owner can permit access continuously or for specific incidents, based on the owner’s privacy settings. Only footage from public-facing areas, where there is no expectation of privacy, will be viewed.

The FUSUS platform does not monitor race or facial recognition. It looks at objects such as cars, bicycles, backpacks and other items that could be involved in a crime. Using accurate information to make an arrest more quickly can prevent the occurrence of future crimes.

The cost would be $315,000 for a three-year contract. If the contract is renewed in year four, it would cost around $125,000 per year. The system would be paid for by appropriating $315,000 from CPD’s Asset Forfeiture Fund to its Patrol Operating Fund. This resource is already on hand and merely requires a budget amendment to authorize a fund transfer.

We want to hear from you

Columbia City Council has yet to approve the contract with FUSUS and is currently considering the proposal. But first, we want to hear from you.

CPD is currently seeking public input in regards to the FUSUS platform. CPD will host two public input meetings followed by a public policy and procedures meeting. Dates, times and locations of those meeting can be found in the "Key Dates" section on this page.

Those unable to attend one of the three meetings can leave a comment or question at the bottom of this page. Comments made at the Public Input Meetings and on this page will be used when drafting the policy they will ultimately share with the City Council.

UPDATE

City Council voted 4-3 against appropriating funds for the FUSUS system at its Monday, Nov. 21, 2022, meeting.

Residents can watch a recording of the Council meeting (48:26) online.

The City of Columbia thanks everyone who provided feedback on this page, at public information sessions and at Council meetings. Your input played an important role in this process.