We have had too many shootings/killings in north Minneapolis and not enough arrest and convictions in 2016.  My Mother, Birdell Beeks, was an innocent victim to gun violence in north Minneapolis.  To date, despite our many efforts, including a $10k reward, no one has come forward with information to arrest and convict the person responsible for my Mother's death.  

The community is afraid to speak so we need additional eyes on our streets to protect us, to capture illegal actions on our streets, to be able to feel safe again. We as a people, as a village and community need to stand up and demand action!

Reasons why cameras may be effective:

1.      Using cameras as well as the ShotSpotters in high crime areas would be really effective as a tool to catch suspected shooters and criminals. 

2.      Using a camera that can give a 360° eyeview of the streets that is activated to point in the direction of the sound from the ShotSpotter will provide the Police with more leads when it comes to finding and apprehending suspect right away.  With the community being so afraid to speak out nowadays for fear of retaliation, even if one of these cameras could catch a possible suspect and/or murderer, it is well with it. 

3.      A camera will increase the chances of recovering the weapon.

4.      A camera will increase the chances of stopping further crime in high crime areas. 

5.      When a ShotSpotter is activated, the camera then has 3 sensors which locates, within 82 feet, where the sound of shots fired came from, the camera then points in that direction and has the possibility of getting views of the area up to 30 minutes before and after the ShotSpotter is activated.  Cameras within 500 feet are programed to show footage immediately before and after the suspected shots.