Cameras Cheaper Than Cops?
From Houston Chronicle:
The Houston Policy Chief, Harold Hurtt, has come out in favor of cameras in the downtown area. This core argument is that it is cheaper to buy cameras than hire cops:
“Once you buy the equipment and you put it in place and you have a maintenance contract in place, I would think it would be less expensive then paying officers to stand on those corners.”
While its true that cameras are probably cheaper than humans, they also suffer from limitations. I think most criminals would prefer a camera on a corner than a police officer. Which makes you wonder what is a more cost effective solution for reducing crime and enhancing public safety.
(I hope I don’t sound like I am against cameras, I am all for cameras, but they aren’t a replacement for humans)
Update: There are a few other stores at the Chronicle on this issue (all by different reporters). The first is Hurtt’s idea that building permits should require malls and large apartment complexes to install surveillance cameras. A follow up article notes the mayor has yet to state his position as well as some privacy concerns.
Update2: Commentary on this proposal by Scott Henson.
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