Atlantic City Implements $5 Million Program to Install Additional Security Cameras

On New Year's Day, Atlantic City, the popular gambling resort, was struck by tragedy as two separate incidents resulted in one man being fatally stabbed and another bleeding to death. The Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office reported that police responded to a 911 call at 6:15 a.m. about a man found bleeding on a street near the beach. Unfortunately, the man passed away at the hospital. Just over an hour later, another 911 call came in, reporting the death of a 22-year-old man who had suffered multiple stab wounds near the Boardwalk. Authorities have stated that the deaths do not appear to be related, and as of Tuesday afternoon, no arrests had been made.

These incidents have sparked calls for increased security measures in Atlantic City, which attracts approximately 27 million visitors each year. In response, the city announced a $5 million state-financed program in October to install 200 additional security cameras throughout the city's neighborhoods. Police Chief James Sarkos explained that this program would effectively deploy 1,000 new cameras when considering the five independent lenses on each camera. While the cameras will not cover every inch of the 48-block city, the majority of Atlantic City will be under surveillance once the project is completed later this year.

The safety of tourists and the economic stability of the resort heavily depend on the perception of security in Atlantic City. Chief Sarkos emphasized the importance of public safety, stating that the cameras act as a "force multiplier," extending the reach of officers into areas where they cannot be physically present. The investment in public safety aims to create a safer environment for everyone.

Although it remains unclear whether the existing network of cameras captured any useful footage related to the New Year's Day deaths or a previous unsolved homicide, city and state officials have prioritized addressing concerns about public safety in Atlantic City. Statistics provided by the police department indicate that several categories of major crimes increased in 2023 compared to the previous year. The city has invested millions of dollars to combat these issues, but changing perceptions will take time.

Residents and visitors have expressed mixed opinions regarding the safety of Atlantic City. Leonard Hall from Mullica Hill, New Jersey, believes that the city is not safe, citing incidents such as stabbings, shootings, thefts, and assaults. On the other hand, Ed Jessup from Brooklyn, New York, feels safe walking around the city, even outside of the Boardwalk, as long as he remains aware of his surroundings after dark. Similar sentiments were shared by Amy Jackson from York, Pennsylvania, who believes that the presence of cameras deters potential criminals.

In comparison to Las Vegas, which has a significantly larger population and more casinos, the police in Las Vegas did not provide specific information about their use of security cameras but acknowledged the importance of technology in public safety. Atlantic City resident Jeff Behm supports the implementation of cameras, considering them a great idea that can only help. However, he also highlights the need for effective follow-up, as simply catching criminals without proper consequences would not significantly improve the situation.

The existing cameras on the Boardwalk have proven to be valuable in solving crimes, locating lost children and elderly visitors, and even preventing fraudulent injury claims. The new cameras, along with the majority of the existing ones, are monitored in real-time by a surveillance unit at police headquarters, staffed by retired police officers. This allows officers to view live camera feeds and gather information about suspects before they arrive at the scene. While the cameras do not utilize facial recognition technology, they can quickly provide descriptions of suspects, including their clothing, shoes, or associated vehicles. Private businesses, including the nine casinos, can also easily share their camera feeds with the police when necessary.

As Atlantic City continues to invest in public safety, the hope is that the installation of additional security cameras will contribute to a safer environment for residents and visitors alike. The completion of the $5 million program later this year will significantly increase surveillance coverage throughout the city, deterring potential criminals and providing valuable evidence in the event of incidents.