(The Center Square) — Shreveport police say surveillance trailers that use cameras to monitor parts of the city are effective at preventing crime.
Crime “for the most part, ceases to exist” in the areas where the three trailers are placed, Chief Wayne Smith told the City Council’s Public Safety Committee on Monday.
The department did not have data to share, Smith said, because the trailers are moved from one area to the next on a regular basis.
The department recently acquired a fourth surveillance trailer that is currently stationed in the Red River District. Two more have been ordered.
A recent violent fight broke out in the Red River District, pushing city officials and law enforcement to crack down on surveillance in the area. Smith said over the weekend the trailers were effective at preventing further crime.
Arrests from the fight took a few days; however, six people were arrested for charges of disturbing the peace.
Three of the six arrested are on active probation and face previous charges prior to the brawl arrest.
In addition to the trailers, several surveillance cameras under the Texas Street bridge are active and have flashing blue indicator lights to make residents aware they are under surveillance, according to Smith.
While cameras are present, there are still vulnerable spots in the area that need coverage — on the Red River District stage and near restaurants. Two additional cameras are needed for these areas. Each camera costs $5,000 and can be expensed from the public safety fund.
The cameras need upgrading, but still function properly.
