JACKSON, Tenn. (AP) - Police in Jackson say surveillance video from newly installed street cameras has begun curbing crime in the city.
Interim Police Chief Julian Wiser told WBBJ-TV (https://bit.ly/1xYDrQK) that there are 18 cameras posted throughout the city and they are producing results and offering residents an added layer of protection.
“A police car can’t be everywhere at every minute, so this is just another tool that we’re able to use and utilize, and it has paid off in other crimes that we’ve had,” Wiser said.
In a recent incident, a camera got video of a suspect fleeing after firing multiple gunshots into a vehicle. No one was injured in the incident last week, but police say the video should help them solve the case.
The cameras also are gaining popularity among some residents.
“The cameras are good, and they can take the pictures of the cars or whoever’s driving and everything,” said Veealice Coble, who lives in west Jackson.
Residents at Crestview Apartments in west Jackson told the station that a camera placed there about a week ago already seems to be making a difference.
“With these cameras, a lot of the people that’s doing the stuff going to be caught,” Jerry Anderson said. “You can see them on the cameras doing it, so I think it’s a good thing. I think we need to have more of them.”
“The technology they have now, it will help with the crime and drive-by shootings they have going on,” Lashonda Perry said.
Police say they paid for the cameras with a state grant.
Wiser said officers are still trying to identify the suspect in last week’s shooting. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 731-424-TIPS.
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Information from: WBBJ-TV, https://www.wbbjtv.com
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