NCJ Number
162935
Journal
Campus Law Enforcement Journal Volume: 26 Issue: 1 Dated: (January/February 1996) Pages: 31-35
Date Published
1996
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The use of closed circuit television (CCTV) has proven to be quite successful in curtailing undesirable or criminal activities on university campuses, and university officials responsible for recommending the adoption of security measures should consider the ramifications of these measures.
Abstract
CCTV is a specific security measure that has attained broad acceptance in various environments and settings, including university campuses, but it is applicable only to environments where targeted behaviors and activities are subject to observation and recording. Those responsible for integrating surveillance cameras should consider the development of appropriate operational policies aimed at guiding and governing how CCTV can and will be used. All individuals responsible for monitoring and controlling CCTV units should receive adequate training in ethical and legal aspects of CCTV use, particularly since it may be illegal in some instances to record human activities in areas where individuals have some legitimate claim to or reasonable expectation of privacy. The use of CCTV can successfully control undesirable activities but may displace these activities to other areas. At the same time, the introduction of CCTV may promote behaviors not previously experienced, such as individuals performing for the camera. The use of CCTV may impose expanded responsibilities and even liability on organizations such as colleges and universities. Application and operational issues associated with the implementation of CCTV systems are discussed.