Home surveillance systems, gadgets changing police investigations

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The readiness and availability of home surveillance systems and high-tech gadgets have changed the way police conduct their investigations.

Detective Joe Ball with the Unified Police Department said he knows about surveillance video. He has spent many days looking at it and tracking clues.

“My workload has increased,” Detective Ball said. “The number of thefts isn’t on the rise, but more people are reporting home burglaries because they feel confident we can track the criminal if they have a picture from surveillance video.”

Video home security systems and doorbell cameras have become more common.

Homeowners have taken a stand against minor crimes like having mail packages stolen off front porches.

“Years ago, if you didn’t have a serial number labeled on your high value items and electronics, I could never get your property back to you once it was stolen,” Detective Ball told KSL. “Now homeowners feel hopeful because they can put a face to the crime.”

Detective Ball said doorbell cameras aren’t an instant fix.

“Criminals will wear hoodies or a mask. Or if the camera is positioned too high, a shot of the top of someone’s head isn’t going to help anyone,” he said. “The cases where we see success are the ones where the images are clear and excellent quality.”

Ball has warned homeowners that burglars have become more brazen.

“They strike during the day,” Ball said. “Many would-be thieves knock on the door to make sure the family isn’t home. If no one answers, they break in.”

Home surveillance video has changed the way property crime officers do their jobs.

“There’s much more to go on now,” he said. “We can utilize the community by having them be our eyes and ears when we share a good quality surveillance picture of a suspect.”