Are Surveillance Cameras Worth It? The Evidence Isn't Clear

Source: Crime and Justice News, August, 17, 2007.

• "Opponents and supporters of public surveillance cameras generally agree that while they provide an intuitive sense of security, they are not prolific solvers of violent crime, says the San Francisco Chronicle They can make a difference, but it is limited and tough to measure. They cannot guarantee safety, even within their field of view. What is not clear is whether the city's surveillance effort is worth the cost, in money and privacy. Running separate programs since 2005, Mayor Gavin Newsom's office has spent about $500,000 on the cameras, and the Housing Authority has spent $200,000"
• San Francisco Chronicle