Could the installation of security cameras in downtown Prince George detour some of the crime that takes place in the area?
City Councillor Brian Skakun thinks so.
He told MyPGNow the northern capital should be following the City of Vernon’s lead where they plan to install security cameras next year.
“The City of Vernon has really taken the lead on this where they have a dedicated web page on their city website that talks about what they do with the collection of video information, how they dispose of it, they talk about their privacy rights and they’re giving money to their Downtown Business Improvement Association to help fight crime.”
Skakun admits he has several options on the table on how to best proceed with the issue.
“There’s a downtown group that’s working on security issues right now, I might talk to them and I am going to talk to Mayor Hall to figure out what he thinks the best route to go is and I also have the option of bringing a notice of motion to council.”
Even though the topic of security cameras hasn’t quite gotten the support of the local RCMP, Skakun is of the opinion the pros outweigh the cons.
“I brought it up with the RCMP but there hasn’t been a lot of traction. I think when you’re looking at the problems of the downtown you need to look at a number of issues and one of them is that if you put camera surveillance in key hotspots can detour some crime as well as support the businesses in enhancing their security systems so we can build upon some of those successes.”
“The criminal element will know there are security cameras in those areas and it’s going to get them out of those hotspots. When a crime happens, the RCMP is already asking vehicle drivers with dashboard cameras and business owners with surveillance cameras to provide any sort of information they can and I think it would help the police do their jobs.”