Lately, surveillance cameras have helped Newport News Police identify robbers.
Chief James Fox says, “Every year, it gets harder for me and our agency to reduce crime. And this is something that I can’t put a Police Officer on every corner. I maybe can put a camera.”
Chief Fox says through grants and donations, the police department has been able to install and maintain 30 surveillance cameras around Newport News.
They are strategically placed in areas where Police have noticed a rise in crime.
Police can also tap into security systems inside of private businesses, if they get permission.
In the future, Chief Fox isn’t just planning on having cameras in crime hot spots, he also wants to bring cameras to places where lots of people go, like City Center.
Chief Fox adds, “I’ve already had a meeting with the Manager to talk about the need of additional cameras there which will help us police that venue as it grows.”
Until then, Police will continue to rely on the cameras they do have to help them crack down on the crime in the city.
