Lawrence mayor proposes city-funded security cameras

LAWRENCE, Mass. – City leaders in Lawrence are considering a proposal that would mean installing dozens of security cameras across the city.

Acting Police chief Roy Vasque said the city will start by positioning cameras in high crime areas, and where residents say they are needed most.

“Potentially, certainly were going to take all those things into consideration in terms of privacy and all that were not going to be able to look in to peoples’ windows,” he said.

Casque says the cameras will deter crime and give investigators another tool when it comes to solving cases especially when witnesses are reluctant to come forward.

“I Think it would be a great addition to be more safety around the city,” Lawrence resident Ritchie Etienne said.

The first 84 cameras will cost the cash strapped city $150,000, and the images will be fed to the police department where they can be accessed at any time.

“If there’s nothing to hide why you worried about being watched if there is nothing to hide and if it’s for the sake of security I think it’s important and it should be done,” Lawrence resident Carla Vares said.

The police chief says the cameras will not be used to for traffic violations. The full city council could approve the funding as soon as next week.

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