JPD cameras already curbing crime
This video is no longer available.
JACKSON, Tenn. — Some of the highest crime areas in Jackson are now under constant surveillance. Jackson Police received a federal grant earlier this year to pay for cameras to go in high density areas with a history of crime. Some east Jackson residents said crime is out of control in their neighborhoods. “When we hear gunshots we hit the floor. We sleep on the floor more than we sleep in our beds,” Albirta Glenn, who lives next to East Pointe Apartments, said. Jackson Police Captain Mike Holt said he hopes new crime cameras will curb crime. “The cameras are a big help for presence when an officer can’t be there,” Capt. Holt said. The cameras are not hidden. “The cameras are black and white with police decals and they have a blue light flashing. They’re not there to trick anybody,” Capt. Holt said. Captain Holt said the seven cameras are up and running in places like Lincoln Courts, Royal Arms and East Pointe Apartments. Two more will be installed before the end of the month. He said someone is watching the live feeds from the cameras 24 hours a day, which allows them to be more proactive. “I think they’re already having an impact in the areas they’ve been placed. I’ve seen calls for service go down, disturbance-type calls go down,” Capt. Holt said. Some residents feel the cameras will not make a difference and they fear criminals will just learn how to hide from them. “It can’t stop [any] violence because the police sometimes, they don’t make it on time when crime is going on,” Chandorisa Watson said. Others said they have faith in Jackson police. “Hopefully it’ll help some. I pray to God that it does. I really do. Too many people are getting hurt for nothing. It’s outrageous,” Glenn said. Captain Holt said he hopes to have 30 cameras up and running in 3 years.
