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November 05, 2006
Cameras as an Investigative Tool
From cbs2chicago.com:
I often get asked about the usefulness of cameras. I first point out that the research shows they aren't a very useful deterrent to crime (from the viewpoint of the city as a whole). However, they are useful as an investigative tool (and often generate considerable publicity) in statistically rare criminal cases. The most riveting of these are kidnappings by children and terrorist activity.
The Jamie Bulger kidnapping in the UK with its footage of a child being taken away was crucial in building support for widespread video surveillance. We now have our own similar story in the US for blue light cameras. It does differ (thankfully) in that Shakina Scott was found quickly and safely. But it also shows (and will be over-hyped) another potential use of the blue light cameras.
UPDATE: According to Parenting magazine, there are 115 kids who are actually kidnapped by strangers every year. This is why I called this type of case statistically rare. However, a poll by the magazine found that 40% of moms (what no dads!) think that 5,000 kids are kidnapped by strangers each year. (This also shows I do read magazines other than Wired.) I found this in the October 2006 issue on page 37.
Posted by rshah at November 5, 2006 08:20 AM
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