MCLENNAN COUNTY, TX — A rise in the popularity of doorbell cameras and other surveillance devices have helped police crack cases.
“The quality is getting better the price is coming down on them, so more and more residents are turning toward them,” said Asst. Chief Larry Adams, Woodway police.
These cameras were pivotal in two prominent Central Texas cases.
A man accused of trying to open doors to homes was placed under arrest on Tuesday. Police say the suspect was caught on a doorbell camera.
In Beverly Hills, surveillance video from a violent armed robbery at a Little Caesars restaurant led to another arrest.
“They're really invaluable in proving the facts of the case in identifying a subject,” said Adams.
Doorbell cameras, and similar recording devices, don't just bring safety to your own home, but to the entire neighborhood. Many systems come with an app to help neighbors connect about suspicious activity.
When the camera is easily visible, the device can serve as a deterrent.
“What we see now is companies making hidden cameras and that sort of thing, but if they see it, it's too late for them. They're already on camera,” said Adams.
The images are not just critical in making arrests, but also when pursuing a court case.
“Eyewitness testimony can be called into question. In court, you may get conflicting points of view from different witnesses, but a video of an incident really can't be questioned in court,” said Adams.
