NCJ Number
225550
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 35 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2008 Pages: 90,92,96
Date Published
October 2008
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article presents an overview of components and framework of a crime camera system and the benefits to law enforcement.
Abstract
A crime camera is essentially an integrated system providing video surveillance tools for law enforcement. Although crime camera systems require video technologies that produce high enough resolution for evidence-grade video, the camera itself is just one component of a larger system. Additional components consist of backend hardware and software, monitors, capture and storage devices, and, most critical network connectivity to securely and intelligently transport sensitive video data. Wireless mesh network-supported crime camera systems are rapidly becoming the go-to option for law enforcement. They offer key benefits lifting its advantages over its complexities, such as flexibility, throughput, multi-hop or linear topology, security and privacy of video streams, and multicasting. Steps necessary for an agency to take when working with vendors and integrators as part of a crime camera system deployment lifecycle include: (1) plan the network; (2) deploy the gear and integrate the backend; (3) manage network projects and performance; and (4) scale the network. The availability of a crime camera in the area of an incident accelerates police response and aids law enforcement by gaining situational awareness within seconds.