NCSR: Red-Light Safety Cameras Are Helping to Solve Crimes Across the Country

WASHINGTON, March 20, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Red-light safety cameras are keeping communities safe beyond improving driver behavior and reducing collisions. Footage from these safety cameras is being used to help solve crimes throughout the United States.

A recent study from the National Coalition for Safer Roads (NCSR) showed that from 2011 - 2012, police departments across the country requested thousands of videos for use in solving local crimes. This video footage from red-light safety cameras has helped to determine fault in hit-and-run accidents, catch vandals, and even solve shooting investigations. These requests were roughly split between vehicle collision investigations and other crimes, such as robberies and homicides.  

"Red-light safety cameras bring many benefits to communities – on and off the road," said David Kelly, Executive Director of NCSR. "These cameras are proving to be a useful tool in helping police solve crimes and often times putting guilty criminals behind bars." 

Earlier this year, a red-light safety camera in Ocoee, Florida captured video that was used as evidence in a home invasion/homicide case. The camera, situated about a mile from the scene of the crime, recorded footage of a car the suspect was allegedly using. In another incident in Surfside, Florida, a red-light safety camera led police to arrest a suspected rapist by placing him at the exact location and time of the crime. A red-light safety camera in Boulder, Colorado snapped a photo of a man driving a pickup truck that was reported as stolen a month prior.

In these cases – and many more – red-light safety cameras have helped bring justice to victims and protect communities. It is clear through NCSR's research that police departments across the country are using camera footage to solve many different types of crimes affecting their communities. These safety tools are proving critical in solving crimes, aiding investigations, and most importantly, keeping residents safe on the roadways.

The National Coalition for Safer Roads helps save lives and protect communities by demonstrating how red-light safety cameras can improve driver behavior. NCSR brings together policymakers, community leaders and concerned citizens in support of red-light safety cameras, advocating for their use in cities and communities across the country. The National Coalition for Safer Roads is a 501 (c)(6) industry trade association. To learn more, please visit www.NCSRsafety.org, follow @SaferRoadsUSA on Twitter and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/SaferRoadsUSA

SOURCE National Coalition for Safer Roads