Vaughan Mayor Proposes New Crime-Fighting Technology to Combat Criminal Activity
Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca unveiled a plan on Tuesday to enhance public safety by proposing the installation of at least 10 additional CCTV cameras equipped with automated license plate recognition (ALPR) and gunshot detection technology. The mayor emphasized the community’s frustration with criminal activities, referring to the perpetrators as “scumbags.”
The proposed investment in the new cameras and technology, estimated at $350,000, aims to bolster law enforcement efforts in collaboration with the York Regional Police (YRP). Del Duca highlighted the city’s direct support for YRP in acquiring and operating the crime-fighting cameras to enhance security measures in the area.
The mayor stressed that this initiative would supplement a recent provincial investment of $255,000 in crime prevention. YRP has already identified strategic locations for deploying the new cameras based on crime data analysis.
In addition to the local efforts, Del Duca plans to reach out to Premier Doug Ford, urging collaboration with Highway 407 ETR to incorporate ALPR technology into existing cameras across the Greater Toronto Area. This strategic move aims to address criminal activities involving stolen vehicles using this major thoroughfare.
Deputy chief Paulo Da Silva emphasized the importance of the proposed technology in combating car thefts and associated violent crimes. The integration of ALPR technology with the province’s stolen vehicle database enables swift identification of stolen vehicles, allowing law enforcement to respond promptly.
Da Silva highlighted the gunshot detection technology’s role in enhancing public safety by immediately alerting authorities to incidents of gunfire, expediting their response. This proactive approach aims to reduce emergency response times and address criminal activities more effectively.
Mayor Del Duca reassured residents that privacy concerns related to CCTV cameras have been minimal, as the community prioritizes safety over privacy in the fight against crime. Deputy mayor Linda Jackson commended the effectiveness of existing CCTV cameras, citing tangible reductions in violent crime rates at key intersections where cameras were deployed.
The implementation of advanced surveillance technology underscores the city’s commitment to enhancing public safety and combating criminal activities in the community.