fiddycixer t1_j0ci63i wrote on December 15, 2022 at 5:28 PM

Reply to comment by Proof-Variation7005 in Providence to install 60 more license plate cameras by Beezlegrunk

It's not about the startup cost for the city. Some of these politicians sneeze $160,000 into a Kleenex every day.

It's about them using violative methods to access millions of dollars (see east Providence) in revenue.

Proof-Variation7005 t1_j0cj6qs wrote on December 15, 2022 at 5:35 PM

You're not talking about the same type of camera. Speed cameras have to be in school zones only, operate limited hours/days and generate revenue.

These are not the same thing.

fiddycixer t1_j0cjj5n wrote on December 15, 2022 at 5:37 PM

You know what. You're right. Not the same. Thanks for pointing that out.

I maintain this type of surveillance is unfavorable to the relationship between the community and the city. And that it's a step in the wrong direction.

Proof-Variation7005 t1_j0cwj7n wrote on December 15, 2022 at 7:00 PM

I think there's a ton of valid reasons to not like the cameras. I just question how much of an impact it will have.

It comes down to what happens first: a scandal that breaches public trust where the police misuse the cameras or a situation where the cameras can easily be pointed to as a part of the solution, i.e. "in the stolen car with kid(s) inside"

Beyond that? I'm not sure it really changes the public/police relationship much. Even with media coverage, most people aren't going to notice this shit since, unlike the speed/red light cameras, they aren't getting a ticket in the mail.