AKRON, Ohio — The city of Akron is expanding its free Ring doorbell program to all residents after launching the pilot program last summer.
Want one? Akron residents can apply for their free Ring doorbell camera starting at 8 a.m. on May 1 HERE. The program is open to all Akron residents from homeowners to renters.
“Residents are encouraged to apply early,” according to a press release from the city. “Each ward has a total allotment of 300 cameras.”
Distribution is limited to one camera per applicant/household. Those who received a Ring camera during the pilot program are not eligible to participate in this second phase.
“Doorbell cameras are a part of the city’s concerted effort to combat neighborhood crime and package theft,” according to a press release from the city of Akron.
When Akron first introduced the free Ring doorbell option, city officials say 724 applications were received with more than 400 cameras distributed across three wards (Wards 3, 4 and 5).
“As a crime deterrent, the doorbell camera will provide residents and law enforcement with added visibility into neighborhoods,” according to a press release. “Recently, an Akron resident’s doorbell camera provided video evidence in a string of thefts.”
Akron's Doorbell Camera Safety Project is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act.