ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Rockford Police volunteers hit the streets to make a database of vacant and abandoned homes in the most crime ridden areas of the city.

They spent more than 15 hours going door to door and talking to neighbors about their concerns. They also took pictures of the properties.

Police will give the list to the city's Problem Properties Committee and use the list as a reference when solving crimes.

Hundreds of homes are empty and unsecured in Rockford. The city has been using grant money to tear down homes, but it says there's a 2-3 year backlog.