APD gets new tools to prevent stop crime

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Albuquerque police say they have some new weapons to deal with unruly crowds, help with swat situations and even catch thieves in the act.

One of the tools is a mobile video surveillance trailer that has a 30-foot boom with four remote control cameras. APD is also adding new helmet cams that can record for more than six hours.
 
The trailer cost $68,000.

The cameras on the surveillance trailer are operated remotely and send video to dispatch, laptops or even smart phones. APD  tested the unit at the Centennial Festival downtown and the Fourth of July fireworks show at Balloon Fiesta Park.

After a lengthy SWAT situation in the South Valley, APD decided the trailer will go out to SWAT's as well, because lapel cams now worn by officers only last about 30 minutes.

The trailer is self-contained, powered by a generator and solar and can stay at a scene for 30 days. It can also shoot at night using infrared technology.   

The surveillance trailer can also be used by businesses often targeted by thieves. APD can set up an invisible fence and when it is breaches, the cameras switch on and an alert is sent to dispatch.  

APD is also equipping tactical teams like SWAT, k-9 units and bomb squads with helmet cams, which can stay on for than six-and-half hours.

The department purchased 22 of the cameras at  a cost of $350 a piece.

Chief Ray Schultz also said the department is getting pairs of glasses with internal cameras and cameras that are set into the microphones worn by officers.

No word on when that technology will be on the street.