By Eileen Buckley
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-773577.mp3
Buffalo, NY – More surveillance cameras were installed in Buffalo's University District last week. But one community group says the cameras are just one tool used to help stop crime.
Three high-tech cameras purchased by UB are now part of the Buffalo Police Department's surveillance system. One is located at the corner of Engelwood and Bruce in front of the University Grocery and Deli. A few years ago the deli was the scene of a fatal shooting. Two more cameras have been placed at Main and Highgate and Winspear and Parkridge near the entrance to the South campus.
David Ellerbrook is the president of the University Heights Collaborative. He says the cameras are a good effort by the UB community to assist Buffalo Police in addressing chronic issues from crime to student parties near the campus. Ellerbrook says it has been a tough situation for residents.
Ellerbrook says residents are now working together with both Buffalo and UB Police to address the issues in a proactive manner. They recently called on the Mayor to step up the police presence in the University District. Ellerbrook says Buffalo Police commissioner McCarthy Gipson will meet with the University Heights Collaborative Tuesday night to review the progress of their request.
Ellerbrook says University Heights is going through a transformation and there has been significant progress, but everyone has a roll to play in this effort. He says homeowners, landlords, students and residents can no longer rely on law enforcement to keep a close watch on what is happening in their district.
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