Saco considers downtown cameras

The Saco Police Chief is advocating for cameras at major intersections in the city.

Saco Police Chief Jack Clements said at a workshop session Monday night that the city is looking to replace the security camera system at some of its buildings, and he suggested that while this change is taking place, the city could also consider putting cameras at some major intersections in the city.

“I think it would help us identify some major issues related to crime,” he said.

He said when there was a shooting at Elm Street, police were able to utilize footage from camera systems at nearby businesses and homes to get information for the investigation.

Clements said police would not have facial recognition, as that isn’t allowed in Maine. They would not be monitored 24 hours a day, but they would be a resource that staff could use to look at footage from a specific time if there was a traffic collision or crime reported.

“It gives us something to look at, versus having to canvas and knock on people’s doors that have Ring (cameras) or whatever, and say ‘Hey, do you have a video,” said Clements.

Councilor Nathan Johnston said he has security cameras outside his downtown home and the footage has been helpful to his family and neighbors, as well as the police department.

“It does act as a deterrent. When people realize there are cameras there, their behaviors change,” he said.

Information Director Ryan Pinheiro estimated that it would cost between $5,000 and $7,000 to purchase and install each camera and set up a modem and cell service.

Clements said possible intersections to be considered for cameras include Main and Beach streets, Main Street and Ocean Park Road, Main and King streets, Main and Water streets, Elm and Water streets, “Scamman’s Corner” along Elm Street, Elm and North streets and Industrial Park Road and North Street.

The City Council will vote at a later date on whether to purchase the cameras and how much money it will allot.

Saco Bay News Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.