Showing posts with label Surveillance Systems. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Surveillance Systems. Show all posts

Saturday, July 03, 2010

Keep Your Construction Site Safe with Security Cameras

Keep Your Construction Site Safe with Security CamerasIf you work in the construction business, you know theft can be a problem. It is estimated that nearly one billion dollars worth of construction equipment and materials is stolen each year. Without taking proper security measures, this number will continue to rise. Losing materials and equipment can delay your project, raise your insurance rates, and ruin your company's reputation. Fortunately, there is something you can do help protect your business: Construction Site Security Cameras.

Construction Site surveillance is a great option for resolving a number of issues, including theft and vandalism. In the long run, it can save you time and money, and make your company even more efficient. If your construction sites often fall victim to theft or vandalism, a security camera can help you catch the criminals who are causing you harm, as well as offer an idea as to how they are gaining access to your site and what you can do to stop this from happening again in the future. Not only that, but having cameras in place, constantly monitoring what's going on at your construction site can help settle disputes, monitor employees, and be used as the perfect witness in the event you find yourself in legal trouble.

If you've decided to purchase or install a video surveillance system, there are some things you should keep in mind. Here is a quick checklist for you to think about before making your purchase or having your cameras installed.

1. Consider a weatherproof security camera. Cameras that are keeping watch over construction sites are often placed outdoors. Rain, hail, wind, lightning and other damaging weather can do a number on your cameras if you choose the wrong type.

2. Keep cameras out of areas that could be damage by your machinery. Cameras are pretty resilient but they are no match for a bulldozer or other heavy equipment. Make sure you cameras are placed in areas where your machinery won't cause them any harm.

3. Place cameras in areas that are most vulnerable to crime. Do you have a certain area at your site that has suffered from vandalism or theft in the past? Is there an area that is vulnerable due to its location or openness? You'll want to consider putting cameras in these areas first.

4. Was there ever an incident that wasn't necessarily criminal but that you wish you could have caught on video? Maybe you had employees goofing off, maybe you had an inspector lie about something he or she saw. Consider these areas to be a high priority for placing cameras.

5. Do you already have some type of security? Maybe actual security personnel or some type of fence that would be nearly impossible for a criminal to get past. If so, these areas may not be first on your list to receive camera placements.

6. Do you leave supplies that would be easy to steal unattended overnight? If so, these supplies need to be monitored. Lumber, steel, and other raw materials can be very expensive to replace and can seriously delay your project.

7. What type of area is your construction site located in? Is it in a small rural residential area or a large suburban area? Be aware of the crime rates in your area. If your construction site is in a note so nice part of town, consider placing cameras around the entire perimeter to detect any and all intruders.



Looking for a DVR or NVR Security Camera System? If so call today at 877-422-1907 x226 for a free phone consultation.

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Shopping Malls Need Security Cameras


Shopping mall security cameras are almost common sense. Think about it. Malls attract some of the largest crowds of any other establishment. You have so many people in such a varied space and so much money being exchanged on a daily basis. It's the ideal location for criminals. Malls often have multiple levels, stores, restaurants, movie theaters and more. Buildings are large and in between them are open plazas, both outside and in. You also have areas where merchandise is stored and delivered. Not only are malls practically a "welcome" sign for criminals, they can present a challenge for anyone looking to help beef up security. One way to do that is with security cameras and monitoring systems. Below you'll find some tips on where, why, and how you should place your mall's cameras.

Where should you place your small security cameras?

Malls usually contain a variety of types of stores and even unique building shape. Because of this, deciding where to place your cameras can be a tough decision to make. Here are some things to think about.

  1. Does your mall already have security personnel? Cameras should always first be places in areas they are not always monitored or easily accessed by human eyes. If you have a security team, consider placing your cameras where they can't be on the lookout 24/7.
  2. Who is allowed where in your mall? Do you have areas that can only be accessed by employees? Do you have areas where truck drivers from all over the country are making deliveries? Are there parts of your mall, such as lounging areas or stairwells, where customers can easily hide to commit a crime?
  3. Do you have a parking lot of deck? Because of the size of your mall, you probably have a lot of places for people to park. Parking lots are not often monitored and are ideal places for a criminal to steal cars, rob and even assault your customers or employees.
  4. Are there any areas of your mall that are prone to theft or criminal activity? Maybe several people have been robbed in one of your stairwells or on a certain side of your parking lot. Maybe one particular store sees a lot of theft. Maybe your courtyard is often vandalized. Keep this in mind when deciding where to put your cameras.
  5. Does your mall connect to any other types of public buildings, such a subway tunnel? Public transportation housing is a particularly busy area where just anyone can and will walk in, with the intent to cause harm to your mall.

Why do malls need security cameras?
With so many different types of buildings all in one location, malls are very attractive to would-be thieves. From huge parking lots full of cars to large retail shops full of goods, a security camera can help those in charge of a mall's security monitor for illegal activity, as well as aid in the investigation in the event of a crime. Cameras can also help deter such crimes. If a would-be thief sees a camera watching their every move, they may think twice about taking something. Also, the presence of a camera can prevent a petty crime from escalating into something major.

Customers feel safer when they are being monitored by quality security cameras and safe customers are happy customers. Also, you can prevent major lawsuits by catching incidents involving customers on video. Monitoring employees is another advantage to having security cameras in your malls. In 2004, employee theft alone cost businesses in the United States over 40 billion dollars. Don't let your mall become part of this statistic.

How to place your mall security cameras.
So You've taken the plunge and purchased your cameras, but now you're not sure how to go about installing them? Here are some great tips that will help you get your security cameras up and working in no time!

  1. Place cameras at all entrances and exits so that you can see who is coming and going at all times and capture all faces on cameras.
  2. Place cameras in areas that are always full of people, such as food courts, courtyards, and lobbies.
  3. Make sure you've taken precautions against weather or vandalism, especially with cameras placed outside.
  4. Make sure you've got cameras in your storage areas so you can see what employees are up to at all times. The same goes for delivery or loading areas.
  5. Call Camera Security Now at 877-422-1907 for more help and tips on putting security cameras in your mall!





Looking for a DVR or NVR Security Camera System? If so call today at 877-422-1907 x226 for a free phone consultation.

Wednesday, May 05, 2010

NYPD Wants More Security Cameras After Car Bomb

NYPD Wants More Security Cameras After Car BombCities 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.

Mayor BloombergNew 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.



Looking for a DVR or NVR Security Camera System? If so call today at 877-422-1907 x226 for a free phone consultation.

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Would Security Cameras Prevent Park Vandalism?

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.



Looking for a DVR or NVR Security Camera System? If so call today at 877-422-1907 x226 for a free phone consultation.

Friday, April 02, 2010

Security Cameras for Farms

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.



Looking for a DVR or NVR Security Camera SystemFarm Surveillance Systems

Saturday, March 13, 2010

Surveillance Cameras for Pharmacies

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.



Looking for a DVR or NVR Security Camera System? If so call today at 877-422-1907 x226 for a free phone consultation.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Convenience Store Cameras Could Have Helped Solve Murder

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.





Looking for a DVR or NVR Security Camera System? If so call today at 877-422-1907 x226 for a free phone consultation.

Monday, February 01, 2010

Sugar Land Police Make the Most of Security Cameras

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).



Looking for a DVR or NVR Security Camera System? If so call today at 877-422-1907 x226 for a free phone consultation.

Monday, December 14, 2009

Security Cameras Catch Car Dealership Vandal

Security Cameras Catch Car Dealership Vandal

There are any number of reasons for Car Dealerships to have quality security camera systems in place and one of the main ones is vandalism. A few dealerships in South Burlington, Vermont recently learned the benefits of security cameras the hard way.

Throughout October and November of this year, police received complaints from five various car dealers regarding the shooting out of windows of cars in their lots. A total of 45 cars received over $21,000 worth of damage.

Finally, a security camera at Shearer Chevrolet caught some suspicious activity involving pickup trucks and employees took the investigation into their own hands.

"On one occasion the person involved in the shootings drove in in a vehicle with a company logo on the side -towing a specialized trailer behind him. We showed these particular pictures to local businessmen - people in the trade and they helped us identify the individual," Steve Dinco, a sales manager at Shearer Chevrolet told WCAX.

Police were able to track down the owner of the trucks. They arrested his 23-year-old son, Jay Stewart Jr., who in turn, confessed to the shootings. Police did not release a motive in the shootings, but Stewart will appear in court in February. Thanks to quality security cameras, the case was easily handled and wrapped up neatly by dealership employees and local police officers.




Looking for a DVR or NVR Security Camera System? If so call today at 877-422-1907 x226 for a free phone consultation.

Monday, December 07, 2009

Even Churches Need Security Cameras

Even Churches Need Security Cameras

Last month, in East Point, Georgia, the First Mallalieu United Methodist Church caught on fire. No one was hurt in the fire and the church didn't burn to the ground but it did receive some damage. According to investigators from the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the East Point police and fire departments and the Georgia Fire Safety Commissioner's office, the fire was an arson, set by an unknown man.

"We found evidence of accelerant both inside and outside the church. The person broke out two window panes to the sanctuary," said John Oxendine who oversees the Georgia state fire marshal's office.

But something else led authorities to seek the man responsible: security cameras. The church's surveillance system caught video of a man dressed in glasses and a black jacket, carrying what looked to be a gas can on church grounds. Authorities have released still photos of the man to the media, in hopes that someone will identify him and an arrest can be made. The Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the man.

This just proves that security is important in all public places. While most people may not think of a church as a place that needs security cameras, any public place where large crowds gather can be a target of crime. And as with any place, there are important things to remember when you set up your church security cameras.

You'll want to map out your church and figure out where, both inside and outside your building, you'd like to monitor. Entrances and exits are important because anyone who comes along to vandalize your building or harm your members is going to have to enter and exit somewhere. Placing cameras pointed at doors so they can get a good look at the faces of each person who enters the building is a safe practice for any business.

Does your church have a daycare center or nursery that needs to be monitored at all times? Maybe you have an outdoors area such as a playground or athletic field. Keeping children safe should be a top priority. Parents trust that when they live their children with a church, they will receive only the best care.

Outdoor areas can also be big attractions for vandals. Vandalism is on the rise with many churches. Often times, it is the result of religious hostility from people who do not agree with that particular church's faith. For example, at a Christian church near Peoria Illinois (a historic building, dating back to 1845), vandals spray painted an entire wall with satanic symbols.

There are other ways to keep your church safe. Be friendly with church neighbors so that they might keep an eye out for your property when it's empty. Make sure you know local law enforcement and stay in touch with them. Also make sure law enforcement is called immediately in the case you do have a problem on your hands. And of course, make sure your surveillance cameras are properly placed, up-to-date, and working properly.




Looking for a DVR or NVR Security Camera System? If so call today at 877-422-1907 x226 for a free phone consultation.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Cameras Combat Crime in Amish Country


Located in the heart of Dutch country, Lancaster, Pennsylvania may have the image as one of the tranquil places in the country. But in reality, it's one of the most crime-laden cities in the country. In 2008, Lancaster ranked 9th among cities its size in violent crimes rates. For this reason, city officials took a step to protect their citizens by installing 160 cameras across four square miles within Lancaster. According to CBS, that's more cameras than major cities such as Boston or San Francisco.

The cameras are monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week by paid employees, who can zoom in and out when they see something suspicious. According to Lancaster Police Chief, Keith Sadler, the camera monitors are to call 911 when they see unusual activity and the police are immediately notified. As a matter of fact, live video feeds can be sent right to police dispatchers.

So far, the cameras have captured a number of crimes, such as DUI accidents, an illegal gun sale, and an assault on an elderly victim by a group of teenagers. The cameras also helped catch a murderer. According to the victim's mother, Freda Brown, the jury was able to watch everything that happened via camera footage of her 19 year old son's violent death.

But as with anything, the camera experiment is not without controversy. One Lancaster citizen says the camera captures him walking down his street or sitting on his front porch. His complaint is not that the cameras are in place, but who is behind the monitors watching them. While the cameras are funded partially by the city, they are also funded by private individuals, individuals who some citizens say have an agenda.

Joe Morales, the head of the security coalition that operates the cameras says he understands that the monitoring system is a touchy subject, "We understand how serious this is, the very serious nature of the work we're doing. And we know that it wouldn't take very much to damage the trust and integrity we've earned up to this point."

And the debate continues. Over the last seven years, since the cameras began being implemented, some citizens point out that the crime rate has held steady. But for Freda Brown, the cameras were an instrumental tool in bringing her son's murderer to justice.

According to CBS, at least four more cities in the United States are considering implementing the same program.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Cameras Coming to Coral Springs, FL

Cameras Coming to Coral Springs, FL
The city of Coral Springs, Florida will be installing security cameras at the intersection of University Drive and Atlantic Boulevard soon. If all goes according to planned, the cameras will help catch criminals and prevent would-be criminals from committing crimes.

"I want this at every intersection so if we're looking for somebody, we are able to follow their progress and stay on top of them. What I envision: there is a robbery, we pull up the camera in that area, you can follow [the car] in a system of cameras, and say 'he passed through this intersection and took a right.' And on DVD is that suspect at the bank driving away which is a beautiful piece of evidence to go to court with," said City Commissioner Tom Powers.

Atlantic and University was chosen because it is the city's busiest intersection. Unlike nearby Pembroke Pines, the cameras will not be used to catch traffic violators.

Forfeiture money will be used to purchase the cameras, not tax dollars. What is forfeiture money? It's money collected by cities after arrests from suspects who are later convicted and it comes mostly from drug-related crimes. Powers said of the funding, "The beauty of this is the money will come from forfeiture money, so criminals are paying for technology to catch other criminals." On average, Coral Springs gets between $250,000 and $400,000 in forfeiture funds each year.

A number of other nearby cities are also looking to prevent crimes with cameras, but with more specific goals in mine. In Lighthouse Point, Florida, poles have been installed at the town's 26 entrances and exits. Eventually, each pole will have a camera. While Coral Springs is planning to use their surveillance system to prevent crime, Lighthouse Point Police Chief Ross Licata says their cameras will be used to monitor license plates, in order to find stolen cars and wanted felons. "We're not using it to track the general public to see them coming and going, we're not using this to write tickets," he told the Sun Sentinel.

Though they may have different goals and budgets with what they plan to do with their camera systems, all of the cities do have one thing in common, the hope that the cameras will deter crime. "If there's a chance of getting caught, [criminals] will think twice about it. Rudy Giuliani put more police officers on the street, and crime went down. It doesn't mean more people got caught they were afraid of being caught," Powers said of the camera system's desired outcome.

Thursday, November 05, 2009

Granddad Bandit Caught on Camera

Granddad Bandit Caught on Camera
The "Granddad Bandit" is wanted in seven states and now the FBI is involved. A $10,000 reward is being offered for any information that will lead to an arrest in a string of bank robberies being committed by an older man. Since April 2009, the man has hit at least nine banks in Georgia, Florida, Virginia, Arkansas, Texas, Alabama, and New York.

Images of the man have been captured on each bank's surveillance system, showing exactly why the FBI nicknamed him the "Granddad Bandit." He looks like any other bank customer and doesn't attempt to cover his appearance. Atlanta FBI Special Agent Stephen Emmet says that while the man is not armed, he's a "nuisance" to the banking industry and needs to be removed from the streets, "He's going into the banks and being very subdued. He wants to fly under the radar and not draw attention to himself." Images from the various bank security cameras have been used to connect the robberies to the same man and have been released all over the country, in hopes that other law enforcement agencies will recognize him, maybe even connect him to other robberies, and help get information that will lead to his arrest.

The man is calm and quiet, doesn't attract attention to himself, and generally leaves the bank without disrupting his surroundings. He does this by passing a note to the teller, demanding a certain amount of cash. He is thought to be between 50-60 years old, is between 6' and 6'4 and weighs between 220 and 250 pounds, with a stocky build. He's bald on top with short, gray hair on the sides and wears glasses. As Special Agent Emmet says, "He looks kind of like your father or your grandfather." If you have any information or recognize the man, please contact the Atlanta FBI.