Surveillance Cameras Not Just For Businesses
Police say more and more homeowners are using cameras to protect propery
Video from surveillance cameras can be a police officer's best friend.
"They've proven to be very helpful in solving some of the crimes we've seen as far as burglaries," said Shreveport Police Corporal Marcus Hines.
Hines says cameras have helped solve more than just burglaries. They've helped police close the books on several armed robberies and even a recent homicide.
Video from a victim's home surveillance system captured the three suspects as they entered his house. Police made an arrest shortly after airing the footage on television.
"It was invaluable. The information we were able to recover from a home surveillance system in something just as severe as murder," said Hines.
While mostly associated with businesses, authorities say more and more surveillance cameras are starting to pop up on houses.
Police say if you are thinking of buying a system, make sure you get one that suits your particular needs.
"You want to determine what you're actually trying to secure. They have a various types of systems. Some are very advanced and some are relatively inexpensive that can give you adequate coverage," said Hines.
Hines says if you are going to spend the money on a system, make sure you get your money's worth by using it properly. He says many homeowners buy fake cameras which can be an effective way to deter crime, but can't help solve one if it actually happens.