10,000 Cameras In Chicago; I’m Okay With That

The Chicago newsphere was abuzz about an AP story on the 10,000 plus cameras installed throughout the city. Personally, I’m not that bothered. And I’m not alone.Chicagoist’s post on this includes a quote from ACLU spokesman Edwin Yohnka saying “…it does appear that people only object is when they get a ticket for running a red light.”

Damn straight. When I’m trying to beat the light I’m cursing Daley and his Big-Brotheresque cameras. But when I look at the homicide numbers since 1995 (when the camerias were installed) or read this story on the cameras. I’m okay with them. And since I’m not trying to run a traffic light often, I’m generally for the cameras.

Interestingly, the cameras serve to monitor crime and Chicago police officers who, let’s be honest, aren’t famous for their by-the-book policing history. Over all, I’m having trouble seeing a downside to the ubiquitous cameras

–Daniel Strauss