The Houston Police Department is considering adding more license plate scanning cameras to improve security, despite being at least 1,200 officers short. However, the question remains whether technology alone can enhance safety in Houston.
According to Doug Griffith, president of the Houston Police Officer’s Union, while these cameras can be helpful, they do not diminish the need for additional manpower. Griffith emphasized the importance of having more officers present on the streets.
Although the city currently boasts over 3,800 plate reading cameras, the most in the nation, plans are underway to invest $1 million in acquiring 60 new cameras. Griffith acknowledged that while these cameras are useful tools for targeting violent offenders, they cannot replace the necessity of increased police presence in the community.
In essence, while cameras may aid in certain aspects of law enforcement, they are not a solution to combating violent crime. The focus must remain on increasing the number of officers on patrol to effectively address security concerns in Houston.
