Crystal Police To Deploy Flock Camera Surveillance Technology
Crystal police now have an added view into fighting crime.
The Crystal Police Department will be installing seven Flock cameras on roadways that continuously take pictures of license plates and record other vehicle characteristics.
“It’s hard to put into words how valuable this is to us,” said Lt. Justin Tourville.
Currently, Crystal Police relies on other cities that have installed Flock cameras to share data with them.
“It is probably weekly that we have a case that is either significantly aided by these cameras or solved because of these cameras,” said Tourville. “It varies from homicides to robberies, to low-level theft to hit-and-runs.”
Now, in two months, Crystal is getting its own Flock cameras.
Lt. Tourville said that will double their ability to follow up on crimes.
“They are a great investigative tool,” said Tourville.
Six cameras will be installed in strategic areas and entrances into the city. Another will be moved around.
Lt. Tourville speaks to CCX News about the camera technology.
Public Reacts to Flock cameras
Community members we interviewed say they are okay with the added surveillance.
“I think if you are not doing anything you shouldn’t be doing, why should do you care? That’s how I feel,” said Brooklyn Park resident Vicki Schenemann.
“I guess I don’t have a problem with it because I’m not doing anything wrong that I know of,” said Golden Valley resident Roger McConico.
“I think that’s a positive thing to help reduce crime,” said Crystal resident Heidi VanAmburg.
Lt. Tourville said the cameras don’t take facial pictures.
“I can understand how some people would feel like it’s an intrusion,” said Tourville. “It’s big brother watching over everybody, but we do not utilize the information for anything other than a legitimate investigation.”
A state grant is covering the cost of the cameras for two years.
Also See: Longtime Crystal Police Chief To Retire
