Newark is installing new security cameras at 10 locations known as illegal dumping hotspots as the city steps up efforts to identify people leaving trash and debris on neighborhood streets.
The cameras are being deployed in the North Ward, including areas such as Third Avenue. Similar cameras are already operating in the East Ward. City officials say the equipment was purchased with grant funding and is being used in partnership with the Newark Police Department.
The cameras include license plate readers, which officials say will make it easier to identify vehicles connected to illegal dumping. Newark officials stressed, however, that these are not the controversial Flock-brand AI camerasthat have drawn privacy concerns in communities around the country.
Councilman Mike Silva said cameras in the East Ward have already helped authorities identify about half a dozen people suspected of illegal dumping, most of whom were from outside Newark. Video collected by the cameras can be forwarded to the city’s illegal dumping task force for investigation.
Councilman Anibal Ramos Jr. said signs will be posted at each camera location so people know surveillance is in place. City officials hope the visible presence of cameras will discourage dumping before it happens.
Newark provides free bulk-waste disposal centers in four of its five wards, but officials say illegal dumping remains a significant quality-of-life problem for residents.
Sources: News 12 New Jersey
By NJ RADAR Team