FORT WORTH, Texas – North Texas police departments are urging business owners to invest in high-definition surveillance cameras, saying the technology could greatly help curb crime, KXAS-TV, an NBC affiliate, reports.
RELATED: 5 Ways Video Surveillance Can Improve Restaurant Operations
The TV station cited the death of Samira Siwakoti, a mother whose killing was recorded by analog cameras inside a convenience store. The grainy video images led to the arrest of a 19-year-old alleged gunman; however, police sent the video to a forensic lab before the case goes to trial in an attempt to improve the images.
“Even though an arrest has been made we still want to do everything we can to enhance that video so it removes the question, ‘Is that really the person?'” Lt. Darren Brockway told KXAS-TV.
RELATED: Video Surveillance Emphasized as Integral to Car Wash Patronage
Police said enhancements are often needed when video is taken from analog cameras, but most cases could be solved quicker if businesses would invest in HD surveillance cameras that can produce a clearer image.
Gregg Wong of security provider Milestone Electric said demand for new HD camera systems sought by homeowners and businesses has doubled in the last two years. The company is selling HD camera systems on average from $1,500 to $2,500.
“[HD cameras] really give you the ability to tell you who you are talking about rather just a figure. You’re going to see facial features and if they have any scars or tattoos,” he said. “This is about taking charge and knowing what’s happening at your property whether you are there or you are not there.”
RELATED: 10 HD Security Cameras to Keep an Eye on
Located outside of Dallas, police in The Colony said HD cameras can enhance critical clues during a criminal investigation. Cases can be solved faster and have made a huge difference in solving neighborhood crimes. Dallas police have urged business owners to invest in HD cameras following a rash of ATM thefts across the city.
“We can’t stress enough the difference between analog and HD,” said Brockway. “It can make the difference between a positive and negative identification on a suspect.”
