Security Cameras: A Signal to Deter Criminal Intent

The threat of criminal behavior is always a concern for homeowners, businesses, stores and schools. Those wanting to protect their children, students and property from unscrupulous and desperate criminals turn to whatever legal means they can to deter criminal behavior.

In this recessionary economy, criminals are moving on bigger targets and going for bigger hauls, while others who would not consider crime in normal circumstances are driven to consider criminal activity as they see other options closed to them. So investing in a security camera is a great idea to deter thieves from choosing your home or business.

Just as a security sign can be a deterrent to a thief, a simple camera can also deter some crime. Some cameras are dummy systems with no actual monitoring aspect to them, but they still serve to send thieves or criminals down the street to a business or home that offers no risk of recording their actions. Such a camera should have appropriate wiring and lights so that the illusion is complete. These cameras are not as effective as a working security system, but do provide a deterrent benefit to those who use them.

Of course, there are other options in security cameras that do provide monitoring capabilities. Theses monitored cameras are even more of a deterrent, particularly if a potential criminal is planning a crime (as opposed to a spontaneous action, such as a violent crime) and can clearly see that the cameras are monitored. A visible video monitor or wires leading away from the camera may give the criminal the understanding that his or her movements are being recorded and viewed. The security cameras that are most helpful in solving crimes, rather than deterring crimes will record all of the events that occur during a certain period. Generally, they keep data for a specified length of time, such as a day or a week, in their memories. Some cameras do make recorded hard copies on a video, flash memory, or DVD, that can later be accessed for review.

Many security cameras, however, record for a limited amount of time then record over the memory if it is not needed. However, if a crime occurs, the images can be accessed to get images of the criminal. However, deterring crime in the first place is preferable.

When installing the security camera, take time to look for a place that is obvious, but not too obtrusive so that it sticks out and attracts undue attention. While nothing will eliminate crime entirely, security cameras at your home or place of business can deter criminals from targeting you as their next easy haul.

Scott Williams is currently a graduate student at the University of Texas at Austin and is studying criminal law. He obtained his bachelor's degree from the University of Texas as well, and has been a part of several research projects involving criminal intent and security with surveillance cameras.