YORK, Pa. — A new security system will be keeping watch at night across York.
On Thursday, the York City Police Department deployed three new mobile surveillance towers at locations across the city. The towers are located at Ridge Avenue and E. Market Street; West Street and W. Market Street; and Foundry Park.
The new security systems are being unveiled as part of the York City Police's new 'Knight Watch Program.'
“We can get it to where we need it, pop it up without notice to the criminals, and catch them off guard and get good information on them while they're in the act," said Detective Frank Clark.
Each tower is equipped with 10 cameras that have night vision technology, allowing officers to see in all directions. The cameras will also record months worth of video.
Commissioner Michael Muldrow believes the cameras will help give his officers an extra set of eyes in high-crime areas.
“[We’re] being strategic, playing chess, and trying to deploy and outmaneuver the incidents that pop up in the community," said Commissioner Muldrow. “When crime moves, we move.”
Patricia Reyes, who lives across from the mobile surveillance tower along E. Market Street, hopes the cameras will help in cutting down on violent incidents. She said her bedroom window was shot at during a shooting on Sunday night.
Reyes said it was scary thinking about what happened.
“Even sitting by the window or walking to the bathroom, you’re thinking, ‘Is someone going to shoot when I’m going up there?’ It’s very scary," said Reyes.
Officers hope the cameras will not only deter crime but also empower neighbors to report incidents to the police.
“We want the feedback of neighbors and residents," said Commissioner Muldrow. "We want to know if you’re having a problem in this area.”