Where not to install CCTV is often the difficult question, rather than where should it be installed. How about in doctor's offices? I get that question from time to time. My answer has been, sure, install it, just make sure its not hidden and not focused in such a way to invade expected privacy. Sometimes the use of cameras can serve a higher purpose and good.
My local newspaper reported the arrest of a pediatrician who was charged with drugging and sexually abusing at least seven young patients, all under the guise of medical treatment. This case shouldn't be too hard to prove for the district attorney because this idiot doctor used a hidden camera to videotape his naked patients in the exam room. Presumably, the authorities have the videos. I guess the charge of unlawful surveillance is the least of this guy's problems. This activity has apparently been going on for four years. I suppose that had the CCTV been open and obvious and monitored by a central station this activity would have been reported long ago [I am not seriously advocating such monitoring — though it may have some merit with some refinement].
It's not likely that a licensed alarm installed installed this CCTV equipment. There is no mention in the article about who installed the system. I guess the point of this article is to simply point out that if a licensed alarm company did install the equipment, it's likely that the installer would be dragged into this mess, possibly was an accomplice.
Cameras in areas where there is any question of expectation of privacy should not be covert, but open and obvious. Even in those situations, there should be no cameras in areas that are off limits by statute, such as bathrooms and changing areas.
Other Security Blog Posts
Laying Down the Law | May 22, 2013
Guest writer Judge Ruth Kraft, and employment law expert at Kirschenbaum & Kirschenbaum, discusses why it’s important for security alarm company owners to have their employment policies translated into several languages.
Under Surveillance | May 16, 2013
SSI Associate Editor Ashley Willis speaks with Matrix Systems’ new CEO, Holly Tsourides. Tsourides discusses her plans for Matrix, shares sales and marketing tips, and offers advice for women in the security industry.
Under Surveillance | May 10, 2013
The May issue of SECURITY SALES & INTEGRATION includes an exclusive and in-depth interview with Gary Lederer, business leader of Honeywell Life Safety, Fire Solutions, Americas. In this bonus blog post from Managing Editor Rodney Bosch's lengthy discussion with Lederer, the industry veteran shares his thoughts on how installing fire systems contractors can find success in the marketplace, as well as issues surrounding false fire alarms.
Under Surveillance | May 2, 2013
SSI Managing Editor Rodney Bosch speaks exclusively to Kratos Public Safety and Security's (PSS) Jim Henry. In this interview, Henry shares personal insights about his family’s business, Henry Brothers, and the trajectory of his own career path.
Under Surveillance | April 25, 2013
SSI Editor-in-Chief Scott Goldfine shares highlights from DMP's second annual daylong Owner's Forum, hosted on April 9 at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas.