APS uses surveillance cams to monitor schools

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) - News 13 got an inside look at the growing electronic surveillance system the Albuquerque Public School District is using to try to keep children safe.

"In light of the recent happenings in Connecticut, we are using the cameras maybe more, with an eye on how can we prevent some things or how can we keep an eye on campuses better" explained Albuquerque Public Schools Police Lt. Allan Rider.

Lt. Rider admits his 56 officers can not be everywhere, so that's what the cameras are for. Surveillance cameras are installed at most APS schools, and their monitored by APS Police at the dispatch center located in APS Headquarters.

"We realize maybe we can use them more now and keep any eye on some of the campuses better," added Lt. Rider. "Especially those that are further out perhaps or don't have an officer there at the moment."

Because of what happened in Connecticut, more cameras are going up and more money from the state is making it happen.

The digital cameras are motion activated, grabbing onto people as they move. They're in hallways, libraries, cafeterias, playgrounds and parking lots.

"Someone watching the camera can see if a person comes on campus who doesn't belong there, and they can immediately call help if they need to or go to the door and see who the person is," explained Lt. Rider. "They can address them before they even enter the campus."

So far they've helped solve vandalism and even keep an eye on teachers, but they're also tracking students.

"If there’s some kids doing something that they shouldn't, the person on the cameras will tell the other officers on campus to check that area, and they can catch kids doing something that's maybe unsafe or just against the rules."

APS also uses the cameras for other things. Monday they used them to monitor weather conditions especially at their East Mountain campuses.