Camden’s leaders are using some new weapons in their long-standing war against illegal dumping, including scores of surveillance cameras and a cash prize for tips.
A $500,000 federal grant enabled the city to purchase and install more than 120 video cameras over the last year, dedicated to monitoring streets where people may be illegally dumping. Some of the cameras stay in hot spots for a year or more, while other cameras are moved daily, officials said.
“While that number [of cameras] may seem relatively small, that number actually equates to nearly 400 individual camera views that can be utilized not just for illegal dumping, but for curtailing crime across the City of Camden,” said Lt. Gordon Harvey of the Camden County Police Department.
Added Mayor Victor Carstarphen: “We’re letting these people know that we are serious about you not doing what you’re doing.”
Leaders said the cameras have led to 23 filed incidents, 12 people charged with illegal dumping, and one vehicle seized. Camden is also implementing a cash reward system for people who send in tips leading to convictions for illegal dumping. The information can earn a tipster up to $1,000, depending on what is being dumped.
“How do we make this a collective effort in a way where it helps our community?” said Carstarphen. “By keeping their eyes open and really paying attention to what goes on, what’s happening when it comes to individuals dumping illegally.”
