MPD to Install Surveillance Cameras Downtown

Memphis, Tn - By the end of the next few months downtown Memphis will be covered in surveillance cameras.

Memphis police officers will be watching. The goal is to put 64 cameras in the downtown area.

The idea is to discourage aggressive panhandlers and create a safe environment for tourists, downtown residents, and to encourage new businesses.

"I'm pretty much going to blanket the downtown area with technology," says Memphis Police Director Larry Godwin.

A couple cameras are already up in court square, a well known place for panhandling.

"In the first few weeks we've had a 50 percent reduction in crime," says Godwin. "It's close to nonexistent."

Godwin says violent crime downtown is rare. Aggressive panhandling is the biggest issue.

"It's an uncomfortable feeling for our visitors, its uncomfortable for a business that would want to relocate down there," says Godwin.

Attracting businesses to downtown is one of the primary goals of the Center City Commission. The CCC director Paul Morris says cameras will make his job easier.

"One of the concerns we've heard for businesses who want to move downtown is that its not really safe, there are panhandlers on the streets," says Morris.

The plan is to start with cameras on Main Street then in phases put them on Front, Third, Second and Beale Street. Godwin says they will be placed carefully, so privacy is not violated.

"Wherever we put a camera without he blue light flashing, citizens feel good, they like it," says Godwin. "They feel safe and the bad guys stay away."

The total project will cost about $300,000. Half of the cameras are already paid for through the police budget and grants. Grants and donations will pay for the other half.