Opinion: Police Can Request User Videos via Ring Again

Ring, the Amazon-owned home surveillance company, is teaming up with taser-maker Axon to once again assist law enforcement in requesting footage from users’ doorbell cameras.

The Reversal

This move marks a reversal from Ring’s decision in 2024 to discontinue its “Request for Assistance” feature, which allowed police to ask users for video via the Neighbors app. The company had initially framed this change as a shift towards a more community-focused approach, distancing itself from law enforcement integrations. However, with the return of Ring founder Jamie Siminoff in April, the company is now focusing on AI and strengthening its ties with law enforcement.

The Partnership

The new partnership with Axon will enable police to request video from Ring users through Axon’s evidence management system. Ring is even considering an option for users to consent to live streaming their doorbell feeds directly to law enforcement. Siminoff views this partnership as a way to enhance the connection between neighbors and public safety agencies for safer neighborhoods.