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Mayor Bowser Highlights Introduction of Camera Technology to Reduce Property Crime

Wednesday, February 27, 2019

(Washington, DC) – Today, during her monthly community walk, Mayor Muriel Bowser highlighted the use of new camera technology to combat residential thefts and thefts from autos. Joined by public safety officials, the Mayor announced that the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) will be utilizing trail camera technology. These high-tech cameras will provide critical evidence and assist local law enforcement in reducing criminal offenses.

“By investing in this type of high quality technology, we are building and protecting the trust between residents and our public safety agencies,” said Mayor Bowser. “This technology, which we will be deploying across the District, is going to help us respond to and solve crimes in real time and build a safer, stronger DC.”

The cameras, which are designed for outdoor monitoring, will be utilized on a temporary basis in neighborhoods that are experiencing a high density of auto-related thefts. The cameras are motion-activated and apply wireless technology to send photos and videos directly to nearby police officers.

“Theft from auto is one of the most common crimes in the District and we welcome new ways to deter criminals and ensure our communities are safer,” said MPD Chief Peter Newsham. “As this technology provides immediate notifications to our patrol officers, we will hopefully prevent more thefts and solve more cases.”

In the past, MPD has used similar cameras to combat and deter environmental crimes in response to residential complaints. After successfully implementing the cameras in the Sixth and Seventh Patrol Districts, MPD’s Environmental Crimes Units made nearly 55 arrests for illegal dumping across the District.

During today’s community walk in the Palisades neighborhood of Ward 3, the Mayor and Administration officials addressed neighborhood concerns and heard from DC residents and business owners.