Chicago Transit Authority Stations Get Security Cameras

If you take advantage of rapid transit in Chicago, come Memorial Day, you'll be on camera. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is putting cameras in all 144 of its rapid transit stations by the end of May. Chicago already has what the Chicago Sun-Times has referred to as, "nation’s most extensive and integrated camera network." By the end of the year, the city's buses and rail stations alone will have over 3,000 security cameras.

The cameras will start out being placed at station entrances and eventually, each station will have 20 cameras total. The CTA will also explore whether or not they want to add cameras to older rail cars (newer cars already come with cameras).

Said CTA President, Richard Rodriguez, to the Chicago Sun-Times, "If there’s something that needs a closer look, we’re able to zoom in and get a better view. The high-definition cameras help us get a very clear picture. As more cameras are added. You’ll be able to go through a number of different camera views from any given station …Video images provided help first-responders to assess situations and act accordingly, whether it’s a service disruption, a medical or a police emergency."

The $41.6 million camera project is being funded by Homeland Security, with the CTA investing a little less than half. Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley said during a press conference that the cameras will be monitored and will be used to assist in emergencies and evacuations. He also said the cameras will be used to help monitor what's going on during the hours right after school, when the bus lines see a large group of student passengers.

But the main reason for installing the cameras is to help solve crimes after they've been committed. Said Daley, "Say someone commits a robbery, runs to the CTA trying to get on the CTA. They come through here. When they have cameras, we’ll get their pictures coming in. If it’s an armed robbery, a home invasion or a burglary — whatever it is. If they’re in a car driving down, a camera will pick them up."

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Security Cameras for Gyms & Health Clubs

Gyms see a lot of visitors each day. Most people are in and out and at all hours of the day. In addition, many people view gym members as wealthier than your average citizen because they can afford the gym membership, especially at gyms in nicer neighborhoods or that have a more exclusive membership. These factors alone can attract a number of unwanted types of crime at any gym, spa, or health club and one great way to prevent a criminal from wreaking havoc on your gym is to install quality security cameras. Here's a look at how security cameras can help your prevent everything from vandalism to violence at your gym.

One of the best things a camera can do for any business is prevent crime. When a would-be criminal sees they are being monitored, they are less like to commit a crime. They know that anything they do or say will be caught on camera and that footage will be turned over to police and the media, increasing their chances of getting caught. At Camera Security Now, we can help you decide where the best location for a security in your gym might be.

Security cameras in sight can also help increase your business. When new members are previewing your gym, seeing well-placed cameras may be one thing that helps them decide between your place and the place without cameras down the street. Often times, people come and leave gyms and health clubs in the early more or late night hours because there is just not enough time in the day. I know I'd feel much more comfortable walking to my car in the dark with cameras watching over me, wouldn't you?

In addition to protecting your members and deterring would-be criminals, security cameras can help you monitor and protect your staff. Want to make sure your personal trainers are actually doing their jobs? Maybe you have life guard who has been known to spend more time flirting with swimmers than watching for any dangerous situations. Security cameras allow you to keep an eye on things when you can't be right there .

So, you've decided your gym, spa, or health club needs a camera? What's next? Here are a few tips that will help make your gym the most secure option in town!

1. Avoid putting in security cameras in areas such as locker rooms in order to protect the privacy of your customers.

2. Take into consideration what damage could be done to your cameras. If you plan to place them outdoors, or in an area where they may fall prey to accidental damage (i.e. an area where items such as tennis balls are often flying around), you'll want to take extra precautions to see to it that the cameras themselves are protected.

3. Have you had security issues in the past? Maybe your parking lot has seen its share of assaults or maybe there is a corner of your lobby where thieves tend to wait around for unsuspecting victims. You'll want to make sure these are the first areas you cover.

4. Do you have buildings or rooms that are not often supervised by your staff? These are also high priority areas where you will want to place cameras.

5. Any business should have a security camera pointed at all points entrance. This way, you can get a look at anyone who passes through your doors.

6. Do you have a snack bar, vending machines, gift shop, or any other place where cash is often exchanged? Cameras in these areas will not only protect your customers, but allow you to check up on any staff member you suspect of being dishonest.

7. Finally, when you're reading to purchase your camera, you'll want to visit CameraSecurityNow.com or call 877-422-1907 for the best cameras in the business with the most competitive prices and the best customer service.

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NYPD Wants More Security Cameras After Car Bomb

Cities installing security cameras is always a topic up for debate. Some feel that cameras are an invasion of privacy, while many others believe cameras are just what they for protection. But anytime a city is faced with an act of terror, many more people become pro-camera than not, and that is exactly what is happening in New York City right now.

Over the weekend, a car bomb that never went off, was found in Times Square in New York City. The incident captured the nation and the media's attention for days and a suspect with terrorist ties has since been arrested and allegedly admitted to setting up the car bomb. Police were tipped off to the car bomb by a street vendor, but security cameras are helping police with their investigation and case against the suspect, and many are asking if more cameras could have played an even bigger role.

Senator Charles Schumer of New York has already requested at least $30 million in federal aid for more New York City Security Cameras. That in addition to the $20 million in federal funding the city will receive this year.

New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg would also like to see more cameras and technology in the city. Earlier in the week he said in an interview, "You can always make things more safe. Do we think we have it right? We can always do better and we are working on that." Bloomberg also said that thermal imaging devices were used to detect the bomb and that he'd like to get cameras that are capable of reading car license plates.

Security Cameras are common in New York City and it's no surprise. The city is the largest in the United States with over 9,000,000 residents, and the metropolitan area has over 5.5 million. The city is often called "The Gateway of the Americas," due to the fact that it is basically the cultural and business center of our country. It's home to the largest ports in the United States, houses the United Nations, is a center for international commerce. With all this in mind, it's no wonder there is a bigger need for security cameras in New York.

If you live in New York City or anywhere in the United States and are in need of a security camera or surveillance system, CameraSecurityNow.com can help. For over 20 years, we've been a leader in CCTV sales and service and we offer competitive prices and excellent customer service. We currently service the entire New York City metropolitan area.

For more information, call us at 877-422-1907, or visit CameraSecurityNow.com.

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Would Security Cameras Prevent Park Vandalism?

Legion Pool, located on Chatfield Street in Seymour, Connecticut, has been described as a "tranquil" place, where citizens can go to feed the fish. Unfortunately, that all changed on Monday.

On April 12, vandals struck the park, destroying the fish food vending machine, stealing money, destroying benches, throwing debris in the water, breaking steps, and bending park signs. According to Alex Danka, the Seymour Land Trust Vice President, some of the benches that were destroyed contained memorial plaques people had purchased to remember their late loved ones.

The vandals caused about $1,500 in damages.

"Enough is enough. Over the past few years, we have spent so much time fixing up the park for people, and these vandals find it funny to destroy it. Last year, we caught a few of the individuals and had them do community service. But this time, I will not be so lenient. The police have a standing order to arrest anyone caught vandalizing the park. These individuals will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, and they will face a judge for their reckless actions,” Danka told the New Haven Register.

Danka also said he feels the time has come to purchase a security camera with Land Trust money, due to the fact that the area can't be monitored 24/7 with human eyes, "I will have no choice but to spend Land Trust money to buy a security camera for the park, with the online ability to watch from home with motion sensors." He also added that the police can't be at the park all the time.

He's right. Having constant police or human monitors at the park is time-consuming, expensive, and ultimately unrealistic. But a quality security camera could be the answer. If would-be vandals know they are being filmed, they are less likely to commit a crime. The mere presence of a camera could be just the deterrent the park needs. And in case the crime is committed, the camera will not only allow Danka and other officials to monitor it from any computer, but police will have video of the criminals, which they can use to release to the media in an effort to identify any suspects.

Despite his frustration, Danka said the park will continue to thrive and refuses to let a few criminals spoil the area for everyone. He's also asking for volunteers to help monitor the park until they can get a camera in place. If you have any information that may lead authorities to the suspects or would like to donate to help purchase a camera for the park, call 203-881-3400 or 203-464-4345. If you'd like to get a quote on a quality security camera, call 877-422-1907 or visit www.camerasecuritynow.com.

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Top 10 States for Crime

CQ Press has release the findings of its annual State Crime Rankings and well, you better lock your doors, or perhaps get a security camera for your home or business. Especially if you live in some states. Let's just say the numbers aren't encouraging for some residents and business owners.

CQ Press has been producing the list for nearly twenty years. It shows how each of the fifty states stacks up against each other and the national average for murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, and motor vehicle theft. Each of the six crimes is compared to the national reported crimes rate and indexed to create a summary score, according to CQ. Also, the most reported crime in the country (it accounts for 59% of reported crimes), larceny-theft, is no longer included.

Looking at this year's numbers, Delaware saw the biggest increase in crime. Last year, the "First State" came in at number seventeen and this year it jumped to number seven. Rhode Island followed, jumping nine places, and Connecticut jumped six places on the list. On the other hand, Michigan and Alaska saw big improvements, moving back seven spots in the rankings. Unfortunately, Nevada tops the list for the seventh year in a row.

Below you'll find a list of the top ten most dangerous states and some advice on what you can do to protect yourself or your business if you are in those states:

1. Nevada - Nevada was the most dangerous state, ranking number one for motor vehicle theft and robbery. Visit this website to learn how you can get Nevada Security Cameras.

2. New Mexico - New Mexico ranked number two for rap and number three for burglary. Visit this website to learn how you can get a quality New Mexico Surveillance System.

3. Louisiana - Unfortunately, Louisiana was the top state for murder last year, and it came in at number four for assault. Protect yourself and your business with a Louisiana Security Camera System.

4. South Carolina - More people were assaulted in South Carolina than any other state in the nation last year. Protect your family, your employees, and your customers by installing a a quality South Carolina Security Camera.

5. Tennessee - Tennessee followed South Carolina, ranking number two for the most assaults in the nation, it also ranked eighth for number of murders. A good Tennessee Security Camera can help keep you safe and deter would-be criminals.


6. Florida - With the amount of people traveling in and out of Florida each year, it's no wonder the state ranked high for assault, burglary, and robbery. A Florida Surveillance System placed in and around your business can help keep tourists and other customers, and even you out of harm's way.

7. Delaware - As mentioned above, Delaware saw a huge increase in crime last year and event ranked third in the amount of robberies. Visit this website to learn how you can protect yourself with Delaware Security Cameras.

8. Maryland - Maryland ranked number two for both murder and robbery, and number four for motor vehicle theft. With numbers like that, you can't afford not to get a Maryland Surveillance System to protect your home or business.

9. Arizona - The Grand Canyon State was big for motor vehicle theft last year (it ranked number two in the nation). A well-placed Arizona Security Camera placed outside your home or business can help keep an eye on your or your customers' cars and other vehicles.

10. Arkansas - Rounding out the top ten, is Arkansas, which came in second in the nation in burglary and ranked fourth in the rape category. It's possible some of these crimes could have been prevented with quality Arkansas Security Cameras.

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Security Cameras for Farms

If you own a farm, you know security is very important. The addition of a surveillance camera system can be an important addition to your farm's security. Quality cameras will help keep things running smoothly by reducing the chances for any kind of tampering or contamination, and keeping your animals, equipment, and property safe among other things.

Farm Security Cameras have so many benefits! When you own a farming business, you must keep everything safe and clean because people depend on your products to survive. Security cameras will help you keep everything safe and secure. For example, a surveillance system can help protect your water supply, one of the most sensitive areas on your farm. Without water, your plants or animals will not survive and if water becomes contaminated, it could be a disaster for your business.

Cameras can monitor for intruders and prevent would-be break-ins. Strategically placed cameras monitor any possible points of entry for criminals, wishing to harm your farm. Not only will the sight of a camera potentially deter the criminal, but if someone does intrude on your property, you'll have images of that person you can present to police or local media, in an effort to see justice served. This way, you can keep your animals, products, and property safe.

If you want to keep an eye on your farms' day-to-day operations, but you can't be around to do so, security cameras can help you do that too. Be sure your cows are being milked or your pigs or getting their feed, or make sure your crops are getting appropriate water without even stepping a foot outside. Also, you can monitor farm employees to be sure they are making the right decisions and doing their jobs.

When installing your farm surveillance systems, there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, you'll want to be sure your cameras are weather-proof. Some cameras can not handle the varying temperatures and weather condition. Also, farm cameras can be subject to vandalism themselves due to their remote location. You'll want to place your cameras in tamper-proof housing when you feel it's necessary.

If you decide to place security cameras on your farm, you'll want to be mindful of where you place them. Cameras at gates or fences where animals have the potential to escape will allow you to keep an eye on that area and prevent an escape from happening. Cameras at driveways allow you to keep track of who is entering your property and of course if you've had any criminal issues in the past, you'll want to install cameras in those areas as they are susceptible to more wrong-doing.

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Security Cameras Lead to Rapist's Arrest

A Cypress, Texas man accused of rape has been arrested and police can thank quality security cameras. The man is accused of raping a teenage girl in her home.

23-year-old Michael Chenault was arrested earlier this month when a Crime Stoppers tip came in to police. The tip said the suspect had been spotted in a specific area on a bicycle and according to officials was even wearing the same clothes he had worn during the incident. Undercover officers spotted and arrested the man.

According to the Houston Chronice, Chenault was wearing a hooded Texas A&M sweatshirt, jeans, and a baseball cap when he broke into the girl's home in a local subdivision. He pulled a knife on the fifteen year old girl and assaulter her in her bedroom.

Before leaving the house, he stole a credit card along with a few other small items. The girl was able to give police a description of the man and in turn, police were able to get that description to the public. He was later spotted and caught on camera at a local Wal-mart, using the stolen credit card. Police were able to use the captured images to get more information about the man to the public.

Chenault was charged by the Harris County Sheriff's office with burglary with intent to commit sexual assault and burglary of a habitation. The man's criminal history goes back at least six years, with charges of car burglary and breaking into a home among others. He is currently being held without bail.

Thanks to the help of a good security camera, there is one less criminal on the streets.

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Security Cameras for Apartment Buildings

Anyone who owns an apartment building or complex know security is an important issue. Apartment buildings often become the scene for a number of crimes for many reasons. One way to protect your business and your tenants is to have properly installed quality security cameras in and around your building. Here is a look at what you need to know about apartment building security cameras.

First of all, installing cameras in and around your apartment building serves a number of purposes. You can prevent theft and vandalism; often times a would-be criminal sees a camera and thinks twice about committing a crime. You'll also secure public places where your residents often congregate. Surveillance cameras at various entrances and in hallways may prevent or detect intruders or even violence or other criminal acts committed by your own residents. And these days, you can access your camera footage from almost anywhere. If you're at home or in your office, you can get online, log in, and instantly see what your cameras are seeing, making it easy to check in on your building.

Before setting up your security camera system, you'll need to consider a few things. For example, what kind of security is already in place? If you can't afford to outfit your entire building with cameras, but you have a guard at a certain door, maybe you can skip that door and mount your cameras at other entrances. If you have problems with certain areas, maybe a stairwell or a particular hallway, you'll want to consider put cameras in those areas first. Other things you'll need to consider are the layout of your building, where your tenants park, and how many buildings make up your complex.

When you do finally place your cameras, don't forget to do the following:

1. Place cameras in areas like parking garages, common areas, mail and laundry rooms, and other places where people often go outside of their individual apartment.

2. Place cameras in administrative areas, especially in areas where rent may be paid. You never know when something could go wrong.

3. Place cameras at entrances so that in the event the wrong person enters your building, you've got a good look at at them and pictures for the police and media.

4. Visit CameraSecurityNow.com for some of the best rates in the business on surveillance cameras for apartment buildings.

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Six Tips for Choosing the Right Security Cameras

There are so many different types of security cameras out there and choosing one can be difficult. Below are six tips that can help you decide what types of camera you need.

1. Look at your floor plan. How far do you need your camera to be able cover? You want to put your camera as close to your target surveillance area as possible. This will then determine how much zoom you need in your lens: 4mm, 8mm, 12mm, or something more.

2. What is your field of view or area of surveillance? How wide is your viewing area? Do you need an angle or fisheeye lens? This Field of View Calculator can help you determine that.

3. What sort of resolution do you need? Are you wanting to catch a person's face or a license plate. How much detail you are hoping to capture will determine what quality of camera you need and where your camera will need to be placed.

4. Is there a potential for vandalism? Security cameras are often prey for vandals because no one wants to be caught on camera. Also, the weather and other environmental factors can affect your camera. Do you need protective housing or a vandal-resistant camera for these reasons?

5. What's the lighting like? Are you putting your camera in a well-lit area or is the lighting poor? Maybe the area is outdoors and lighting is unpredictable. In this case, you may need an infrared or low light camera.

6. How much are you willing to spend? You probably have a budget and that's okay, but keep in mind the more you're willing to spend, the better system of cameras you'll get. But also keep in mind that any camera, even a relatively inexpensive one, is better than no camera at all.

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Surveillance Cameras for Pharmacies

Any type of retail outlet or health care facility should have surveillance cameras for a number of reasons. A pharmacy combines both of those worlds, so it's even more important that a pharmacy be protected by quality security cameras. Pharmacies contain an inventory of items that are expensive and in high demand, and that makes security an even bigger issue.

Your pharmacy's security cameras can serve a number of purposes. Cameras placed at key locations can protect your staff and your customers from harm. They can deter would-be criminals and catch any sort of illegal, criminal activity. When a crime is caught on camera, police are able to release video to the public or use it in other ways that may lead to an arrest. Also, video footage can provide an objective witness in the event it is needed for a court case.

Cameras may also help keep your prices low and competitive. Pharmacies often have a problem with stolen stock, due to the nature of their inventory. Stolen drugs can drive up prices and even eventually run you out of business.

When you do decide to purchase a surveillance camera system for your pharmacy, there are a few things to consider. What is the size of your store? Are you located in a large retail store or are you in your own building? Is your pharmacy freestanding or are you part of a strip mall or other building? How do your customers receive their drugs? Do you have a drive-through service or do all transactions take place at the counter? Do you already have any type of security in place? An alarm system, other cameras, or a guard, for example? Maybe you want to compliment what you already have or maybe you are starting from scratch. Also, you'll want to consider any type of problems you've had in the past. Do you find a certain aisle always has missing inventory? Does your drive-through always fall prey to hold-ups or other incidents?

Once you've answered these questions, you'll want to keep a few things in mind while installing the cameras. You'll want to place your cameras where every customer you serve is caught on video, both at the counter and the drive-through if you have one. You need to be sure you catch every person's face on camera and if you do have a drive-through, catching their license plate numbers on camera can also serve you well. Just be sure you are protecting well-meaning customers' medical information private. You'll also want to monitor areas where you keep drugs in storage or discard unneeded items. These areas are very attractive to thieves who are looking to get drugs they are unable to get without a prescriptions.

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Arkansas High School Improves Security with Cameras

Schools are some of the most common places for security cameras. Keeping our children safe is more important than anything else in the world. And one school in Corning, Arkansas has learned that lesson well.

In November, Corning High School found three different bomb threats written on a boy's bathroom wall...all in one week. Unfortunately, no one has been charged but law enforcement is still investigating. Fortunately, a week before the bomb threats, cameras were installed in the schools and according School Resource Officer Dwight Brown, have been a helping with the investigation and with other problems.

"Cameras are really a big help," he told a local news station. "You can definitely see a big difference. Last year when we didn't have them you had a lot of people roaming the halls."

Even students agree the school is safer with the added cameras. "They find stuff that some people can't find as if there was a discipline problem and nobody saw it they could find it on the cameras," one eighth grader said.

And a senior in the school said, "We've had vandalism problems in the past and since they show the outside we can really use them."

One teacher said he's noticed less graffiti in the bathrooms and outside the school. Students don't know where all the cameras are located, but for the most part, most of them say they aren't worried about it because they aren't doing anything wrong. One school official says the cameras have helped with "he said, she said" incidents because teachers and administrators now have that information on video.

The cameras aren't just on the high school campus. Two elementary schools have cameras as well. And all of the buses in the district have added cameras too, which has helped take the pressure off of drivers, so they can spend more time driving kids to and from school and less time worrying about who is doing what.

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5 Reasons to Install Security Cameras in Your Business

If you own a business, you're probably constantly thinking about safety and security among a million other things. Keeping your business, your employees, and yourself safe takes priority over everything else. Security cameras can take a huge weight off your shoulders, by being the extra set of eyes and ears you need in the event something goes horribly wrong. But there are so many other reasons why you should consider installing a quality surveillance camera system in your business.

1. Deter Crime - If you're worried about crime, cameras can not only catch criminals in the act, but the very presence of surveillance systems can make a would-be criminal think twice about any wrong-doing. Think about it, if you planned rob or vandalize a store or office, would you want to do it if you knew you were being recorded?

2. Prevent Employee Theft - Chances are you've gone to great lengths to screen new employees but even the best employers can make a mistake. If you suspect one of your employees of wrong-doing but don't know where to begin to try to get to the bottom of things, a camera can be a very helpful tool. This is especially true if you own an establishment where cash is exchanged. Cameras posted near cash registers or other places where employees are often stationed can not only show you if an employee is stealing, but may even deter an employee from committing a crime if they know you're watching.

3. Be used as evidence - If a crime is committed in or around your business and the person accused of committing the crime was caught on camera, you've got an extra piece of evidence for a court case. Jurors and judges can watch footage or view photos from your security cameras and establish that the person on trial did indeed commit the crime. Not only will you be preventing the same person from causing you more trouble in the future, you'll be helping out your entire community.

4. Help law enforcement solve crimes - This is probably one of the biggest reasons cameras in businesses are used. When someone commits a crime and is caught on camera, police and other law enforcement officials can use the footage to release video or photos to the public via various media outlets. Having a picture of the suspect can make a world of difference when it comes to making an arrest and getting dangerous criminal off the street.

5. Keep an eye on things - If you can't be at the office all the time but like to know what's going on, a security camera can help do just that. You can keep an eye on things from your home computer with a few quick clicks of your mouse and make sure your business is running smoothly and nothing out of the ordinary is going on.

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Convenience Store Cameras Could Have Helped Solve Murder

Over the weekend, a 71-year-old convenience store clerk was shot and killed in Dorchester, Massachusetts. Two armed robbers entered the store - Hermanos Unidos on Dudley Street - on Sunday morning and shot the man when he wouldn't cooperate, according to the Boston Police Commissioner, Edward F. Davis. The owner and a customer who was in the store at the time were not harmed.

A resident who lived near the store called the victim a "grandfather figure" and said she has known him for over five years. "He's a familiar face that you wake up to everyday. You go in, say hello, and make conversation. He was a Christian. He was very kind. He never had anything bad to say about anybody or life itself," she told the Boston Globe.


One of the store's regular customers said he was a "sweet man" and always gave her "hugs and kisses."


Commissioner David said the Boston Police would be "working around the clock on this until we bring these people into custody." However, no suspects have been caught or identified and one reason for that could be because the store does not any type of surveillance cameras. Nearby businesses did have cameras and police are attempting to gain information from them, but if the store would have had its own cameras, things would be a lot easier for the Boston PD.

Convenience stores are one of the most dangerous places in the country. According to Crime Magazine, convenience store clerks fall victim to homicide more than any other occupation outside of police officers. Some cities have even created special task forces for convenience stores. Reasons for convenience store murders range from the amount of cash kept on hand to the small, easy layout of the store. Having quality security cameras installed in your convenience stores can not only save you, your customer and employees from violent crimes, but keep your business running smoothly by deterring would-be-criminals.

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Even in a Fire, Restaurant Camera Comes Through

At 4:30 AM on November 9, 2009, Emory's restaurant on Silver Lake - an Everett, Washington landmark - was set on fire. Once the fire was extinguished, fire detectives found a surveillance camera in the rubble that was almost completely burned and destroyed, but a lot of hard work from the Everett Police Department's Video Forensic Unit led to a break in the case.

The task was said to be difficult and time-consuming but technicians managed to dry and salvage some shots from the camera. In the video, a man is seen walking toward the restaurant, right in the area where the fire is thought to have started, and leaving just minutes before the flames broke out. He is wearing a DC hooded sweatshirt, a baseball hat, shorts, and tennis shoes.

Robert Goetz of the Everett Police Department told local media that he hopes the release of the video will prompt someone who recognizes the suspect to call in with information. If you have information about the case, you can call the Everett Police Department tip line at 425-257-8450.
The owner of the restaurant says he plans to rebuild and that he hopes the guilt party comes forward on their own. The three-alarm fire, with reported 100-feet flames, burned through the restaurant's roof, causing severe damage. No one was injured in the fire. The restaurant should re-open this fall.

Even though there were no injuries, many local residents say they do not feel safe in their own neighborhood anymore. Resident Ron Moyer told a local news station, "When someone commits arson, that is an act of vengeance of passion and thereby there's danger involved." Another woman who enjoys walking in the area expressed similar concerns, "What can you do? Tell me what you can do about it. Crazy people go and burn something up because they don't like it."

You can view the salvaged video for yourself below:

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Even Small Towns Need Security Cameras

At the time of the 2000 Census, Newburg, Pennsyvania had about 372 residents. Located in Cumberland County, the tiny town has no traffic lights and no law enforcement, which has presented a problem for its inhabitants. That's why they've decided to take matters into their own hands.

During a borough council meeting last month, residents expressed a desire to install on-street surveillance cameras.

One of the cameras would be mounted somewhere outside of Teresa Guyer's Styling Salon. On January 15th, a car hit the telephone poll across the street from the salon - located on Main Street - and drove off. Guyer, the owner of the salon, called 911, but it took police officers an hour and a half to respond. Because the town is too small to hire its own law enforcement, they are forced to rely on state police located in the city of Carlisle, which is about 20 miles away.

And while crime isn't a major factor in the day-to-day lives of Newburg citizens, they do find themselves running across the occasional minor issue, including speeders and double-parked cars. Resident Jeremy Strayer, who lives on Main Street, told PennLive.com it's time for the town to get into the 21st century, "We might not have crime like Harrisburg and Hershey, but there are speeders and kids crossing the street.” Strayer said that in the past, his own car was hit with eggs and trash cans near his house were detonated.

Newburg Mayor, Susan Stump, says she's all for the cameras. “Cameras let people know that even though we don’t have a police department on hand, they can’t get away with anything.”

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1,000 Cameras to Provide Security for Winter Olympics

The 2010 Winter Olympic Games will take place February 8-12 in Vancouver, Canada. In an effort to beef up security for the Games, a large network of over 1,000 closed-circuit cameras have been installed.

The Olympic Integrated Security Unit, led by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), had about 900 of the cameras installed in and around the Olympic venues. One hundred more will be installed in the city of Vancouver, keeping watch on city streets. This unprecedented move has some citizens uneasy and concerned about their privacy, but officials have said the cameras, which went live on February 1st, will come down after the games.

The city actually already has a number of cameras placed around the city, but the security team felt it was necessary to add surveillance. The RCMP Assistant Commissioner said the alternative would be adding more foot patrol, which would cost taxpayers unnecessary money.

The cameras are said to be on a motion-detector, meaning they won't be monitored 24/7 and will only record when a motion sensor sets them off. The system was already tested last week when an intoxicated man stumbled into view near a cruise ship being used to house police officers during the Olympic Games.

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Surveillance Cameras Can Save Your Restaurant

Police officers in Bonneville County, Idaho are looking for someone. The person they are searching for is suspected of armed robbery at a local I-Hop restaurant. Sergeant Doug Metcalf with the Bonneville County Sheriff's Office has been trying to piece together what he can about the robbery, but there's something missing, something that could make his job a lot easier: video or a picture of the suspect from a surveillance system.

"It makes solving the crime a lot easier," Metcalf told a local news station, "Usually the ones that don't have surveillance video and all we have is a description, those could take months, years to solve."

And Metcalf is right. Having a security camera system installed in your restaurant can ultimately save your business. In the event of a robbery, or some other type of crime, police can take the video from the surveillance system and use it to find that person and arrest them so that they do not return to your restaurant.

It just so happens that this particular restaurant in Idaho had a security camera but it was not properly placed and therefore the suspect was able to take off without a trace. Poorly placed cameras are just like not having a camera at all. At the very least, you want your cameras focused on all entrances to the building, so that no one can get in without being seen. You also want to make sure that the cameras are placed at an angle so that you're able to get any potential criminal's face in the shot, not just the top of their heads.

Beyond entrances and exits, you'll want to place a camera where money transactions take place. Registers are usually where hold-ups occur and not only that, but you may be able to prevent or solve a crime involving employee theft. You want to trust employees and think the best of them, but it's always possible for one bad apple to work their way into restaurant. Employees who are aware they're being watched may think twice about stealing money, and if they do choose to steal some cash, you'll catch the incident on camera, to use as evidence.

In the long run, not having security cameras in your restaurant can be very harmful to your business. It can end up costing you thousands of dollars and maybe even more. Below are some tips and ideas about installing cameras in your restaurant.

1. Make sure your cameras are pointed so that you can see the faces of customers.


2. Place outdoor cameras that help identify cars that enter your parking lot.


3. Have cameras in locations where any cash handling transactions take place.


4. Cameras placed at counters can help you monitor long lines and schedule staff for peak hours.


5. You always want to have cameras placed at entrances and exits so you can see everyone who enters and exits your building.


6. Outdoor video can keep track of any vandalism to the outside of your building, any landscaping you may have in your parking lot, or if you have an outdoor dining area.


7. Many restaurant owners are surprised at the types of surprises they come across when they place a camera at their dumpsters.


8. Make sure your video is viewable from a remote location, such as your home or office computer, or even your wireless laptop.
   
   

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Sugar Land Police Make the Most of Security Cameras

If you're planning to commit a crime in Sugar Land, Texas, you better hope there aren't any cameras around. Lately, the Sugar Land Police Department has been using high-quality surveillance systems to their advantage. The cameras are leading to arrests, providing evidence, and helping police to remove dangerous and obnoxious criminals from the street.

On January 24th, 2010, at 11:41, PM, the Sugar Land Police Department received a call about several men breaking into cars in the parking lot of the AMC Theater located on Town Center Boulevard. Six men were taken into custody, based on the description provided by witnesses. But when it came time to file charges against the suspects, police turned to the AMC Theater's surveillance video. The video led to charges of burglary of a motor vehicle and engaging in organized criminal activity for the six young men, who ranged from age 17-21.

"This incident illustrates the importance of citizens being aware of their surroundings and immediately reporting suspicious activity to police. It also shows the value of surveillance cameras as an investigative tool," said Sgt. Mike Richards of the Sugar Land Police Department. The police department is currently working with neighborhoods and retail establishments to encourage surveillance camera installation for security purposes.

As a matter of fact, it was the cameras at the entrance of Eldridge Lake Subdivision that helped provide detectives with information about a woman who was attacked in her garage. On January 22nd, at 10:00 PM, a 60-year-old woman was in her garage, exiting her vehicle. She was confronted by three men who displayed a handgun and took her cell phone and purse. They lady was not hurt and said she noticed the men were driving a red car. Cameras that had been purchased and installed by the neighborhood's homeowners association confirmed the woman's words. A newer, red Chevrolet Cavalier followed the woman into the subdivision and left shortly after the robbery took place.

The police are still looking for the three men, who were described as being around six feet tall, wearing black clothing and ski masks. If you have any information, please contact the Sugar Land Police Department at 281-275-2540 or Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers at 281-342-TIPS (8477).

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Connecticut Residents Use Cameras to Deter Speeders

If you're driving on Terry Road between Bloomfield and Hartford Connecticut you may want to slow down. A few neighborhood residents who call themselves the "Terry Road Action Committee" have mounted two surveillance cameras on a tree along side of the road. They say their goal was to protect the over 30 children who live on the street from speeders.

Upon installing the cameras, the group handed out fliers at the nearby University of Hartford, explaining the cameras and why they installed them. They promised to notify police, the university, insurance companies or a student's parents if a student was caught driving recklessly through the neighborhood. They even offer a $500 reward for anyone who reports a speeder.

Jonathan Fairbanks, a member of the group, told a local newspaper that they have seen a decrease in the number of speeders since the cameras have been put into place, and that overall traffic has slowed down. He is the owner of both the cameras and the tree which they are mounted on. Otherwise, he is very secretive about the cameras.

The speed limit in the area is 25 MPH and police have increased traffic enforcement there. Residents have also tried placing traffic cones in the road and requesting the city put speed bumps there, but none of those ideas worked. Fairbanks said speeding and reckless driving are most prevalent when students return to the college in the fall and after the winter break.

John Carson, the vice president of university relations said the school has no problem with the cameras. "We haven't heard or seen any concerns... we don't have a sense that they are infringing on any innate right," he said in an interview with a local paper. City police said they were unaware of the cameras and have not been involved.

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Oakland Schools Get 750 Security Cameras

It'll soon be harder for delinquent students and would be-criminals to get away with committing a crime in the Oakland School System. At least that's what the school district hopes. A high-powered security system with at least 750 cameras is being implemented in 30 middle schools and high schools in the city. The cameras are supposed to be installed by August 2011.

The district hopes the cameras will cause a reduction in crimes such as defacing of property, and even keep students from cutting class. The camera footage will be linked so that Oakland police and authorized school district staff members can sign in and view it at any time online, even giving them the ability to zoom in if needed. A spokesman for the district said you can see something as small as the insignia on a shoe when the high-quality cameras zoom in.

The high-tech surveillance system will cost about $3 million; half is being paid by the school district and half is coming from a grant from the Department of Justice. According to Michael Moore, Sr., the district's director of procurement, the money had already been set aside for security purposes.

The cameras will be located both inside and outside the schools. They'll watch what's happening in the hallways, gymnasiums, and in the parking lots and streets surrounding the schools. However, they will not be installed in classrooms or bathrooms. Urban Promise Academy principal Mark Triplett said he thinks the cameras are a "great idea." He also said that while he already uses cameras to monitor who comes and goes from the school after-hours, the quality is grainy and unclear. Triplett's middle school is not on the list of schools where cameras will be installed but he says he'd like to see to it that they are.

The first school to receive the cameras was Oakland Technical High School in North Oakland. They were installed there last week. Fred Trotter, the head security officer at the school, has already used the cameras to identify three different students on three separate occasions. One was using illegal drugs on campus, another had a weapon, and another one was defacing school property with graffiti. As word about the cameras spread amongst the student body, it is likely that crime will decrease.

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