Read What Lancaster's Community Leaders
Are Saying

"I support the use of video cameras as an important tool that law enforcement and residents can rely upon to enhance public safety... our own experience leaves no doubt that, but for the presence of video cameras, many perpetrators of both property crimes and violent crimes would not be apprehended and prosecuted. Crimes would not be solved and criminals would remain free to victimize our community."

J. Richard Gray, Mayor, City of Lancaster

Click here to read Mayor Gray's full statement >>

"We deal with cases all the time where we either have no witness or have witnesses who are reluctant to come forward. Now, the camera can be the witness; and we find that if witnesses know [an incident] is on camera, their reluctance decreases. They know they're not going to be the only one to go out on a limb to identify a suspect. I have seen in court where someone who seems to be telling the absolute truth, but the cameras tell a different story. It's difficult to change what's on that tape."

Lancaster County District Attorney Craig Stedman

"The video safety cameras in Downtown Lancaster, operated by the Lancaster Community Safety Coalition, have proven to be an important addition to our city’s crime prevention efforts – and the Lancaster Police Foundation supports their continued use. On numerous occasions, the Lancaster City Bureau of Police have utilized the extra “eyes on the street” for rapid mobilization, incident prevention, and as important evidence in the successful conviction of criminals."

Lancaster Police Foundation

“Every day, hundreds of children benefit from the services provided by the Boys & Girls Club of Lancaster. It’s good to know that Lancaster’s video safety cameras are there to help provide an additional layer of security for our kids as they walk between our two clubhouses and their homes each day.”

David Tinkis, Chief Executive Officer
Boys & Girls Club of Lancaster

"They have supplemented the police, and I can see a difference in crime. Some of the corners where cameras were installed are now clean."

Nelson Polite, Sr.
Three Term Member of Lancaster City Council

View a video interview with Mr. Polite >>

"... They allow cash-strapped cities like Lancaster to boost their commitment to public safety with minimum expense. The cameras are costly, but they don't get overtime, don't require health insurance. Taxpayers aren't on the hook for Community Safety Coalition salaries.

... And while the cameras don't eliminate crime, they make it easier for police to identify and catch lawbreakers. At least one murder, and several additional felonies, have been solved with the help of the cameras.

Bottom line: The cameras are relatively cheap. And they work."

Gil Smart, Associate Editor, Sunday News