LMPD eyes expansion of surveillance efforts with private camera access

LOUISVILLE, Ky (WDRB) -- The Louisville Metro Police Department is increasing its use of surveillance technology to combat violent crime, with 141 Flock cameras already installed across the city.

Close to 100 cameras, funded by private owners who pay a $650 installation fee and a $3,000 annual monitoring fee, can provide LMPD with real-time access to critical footage.

Now, the department is looking to expand its efforts by seeking access to privately-owned surveillance cameras, including those installed on residential properties.

“We want cameras in areas that are going to help detect violent crime, and we want officers to have access to those cameras in real time," Sgt. Matt Sanders, LMPD spokesperson, said, emphasizing the importance of the expansion. "That’s going to mean a faster response from your police department.”

A high-profile example of the role surveillance plays in crime detection occurred in June 2023, when a shootout near the downtown Louisville skate park was captured by a private security camera at a nearby business. The footage showed individuals firing from behind cars and walking down the middle of the street while shooting into the air. The video was later turned over to police, aiding in their investigation.

“We live in a world nowadays where if it’s not captured on camera or there’s no DNA or body-worn camera footage, then it’s like it never happened,” said Sanders. “Expanding this tool helps our detectives build stronger cases for court.”

Additionally, private surveillance footage was instrumental in tracking down a group of street racers, including a 15-year-old driver.

To further integrate private surveillance networks, the city is launching ConnectLouisvilleMetro.org, a program that will allow property and business owners to grant LMPD direct access to their security cameras.

“We can’t access a private person’s camera without their permission. They have to enter into an agreement with us,” Sanders explained. “Some businesses will allow us access to their cameras, which can be monitored in real time.”

By securing access ahead of time, police can obtain crucial footage without the need for a court order, expediting investigations.

“We’re going to speed that process up a little bit, but only if the stakeholder allows us access ahead of time so they know exactly what the expectation is,” said Sanders.

The expansion of surveillance technology has sparked debate within Metro Council, particularly regarding privacy concerns and the equitable distribution of Flock cameras. Some cameras have been placed in areas that can afford them, while other parts of the city have significantly fewer.

“I know people are concerned about privacy issues, but I’m more concerned about people getting killed and carjacked," Councilman Dan Seum, R-14, said. "I don’t know how much privacy we can expect on a public road.”

Over the past five to six years, Louisville has significantly increased its use of surveillance cameras, with no signs of slowing down. As the city continues to navigate the balance between security and privacy, programs like ConnectLouisvilleMetro.org will play a crucial role in shaping the future of law enforcement surveillance efforts.

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