2008 Woodie Awards
New cameras increase University periphery
Adam Coulter, Collegian Staff
Issue date: 9/3/08 Section: News
This summer 60 additional security cameras were installed on the University of Massachusetts campus, which brings the total number of the crime-solving and investigative tools placed in residence halls, dining commons and other buildings to over 500.
Overall, the estimated cost of the project for the UMass Amherst Housing Services totals $1.1 million.
Although security is a justifiable concern on campus, the topic of privacy and where the cameras are placed may arouse anxiety that the cameras will be installed in places other than public zones.
"The presence of the cameras on our campus is broadly publicized," said James Meade, manager of residence hall security in an August press release. Often just knowing the camera is there will deter crime.
Meade also outlined that the "eyes in the sky" have already proved useful at UMass in preventing and deterring campus crime.
A security camera in McNamara Hall caught an assailant exiting the dormitory after beating a former roommate with a baseball bat and stabbing another. Images show the alleged attacker carrying stolen electronic equipment from the residence. If an incident were to occur, the UMass Police Department often posts still shots from security cameras to help in cold or slow investigations. Those who visit the Web site can view the image and submit a tip online should they have information.
The security camera installation process began on campus in 2000 and by 2006 there were cameras installed at every residence hall entrance. Safety measures also include student programs that promote campus security.
The footage from the security cameras is monitored at the UMPD dispatch center where three, 24-inch screens provide visual assistance. The cameras can be watched simultaneously and "with a click of a mouse" an image can be enlarged to full screen.
Overall, the estimated cost of the project for the UMass Amherst Housing Services totals $1.1 million.
Although security is a justifiable concern on campus, the topic of privacy and where the cameras are placed may arouse anxiety that the cameras will be installed in places other than public zones.
"The presence of the cameras on our campus is broadly publicized," said James Meade, manager of residence hall security in an August press release. Often just knowing the camera is there will deter crime.
Meade also outlined that the "eyes in the sky" have already proved useful at UMass in preventing and deterring campus crime.
A security camera in McNamara Hall caught an assailant exiting the dormitory after beating a former roommate with a baseball bat and stabbing another. Images show the alleged attacker carrying stolen electronic equipment from the residence. If an incident were to occur, the UMass Police Department often posts still shots from security cameras to help in cold or slow investigations. Those who visit the Web site can view the image and submit a tip online should they have information.
The security camera installation process began on campus in 2000 and by 2006 there were cameras installed at every residence hall entrance. Safety measures also include student programs that promote campus security.
The footage from the security cameras is monitored at the UMPD dispatch center where three, 24-inch screens provide visual assistance. The cameras can be watched simultaneously and "with a click of a mouse" an image can be enlarged to full screen.
Viewing Comments 1 - 2 of 4
Ed
posted 9/03/08 @ 4:08 AM EST
So *that* is why Justin Vassall was wearing a black ski mask when he stabbed the two men in the dorm lobby....
(Info from the public court file of Bosse. (Continued…)
Daniel Kobran
posted 9/04/08 @ 10:46 AM EST
Perhaps we should have cameras or two way TVs in our rooms just in case of an emergency? Or is that part of the plan for the future? In terms of my physical health, I would feel much safer that way. (Continued…)
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