Big Brother is watching you -- New Security Cameras in Downtown Detroit

[Lowell]

Are they new or are you just noticing them? In some ways I feel they are almost inconsequential. Now that just about everybody is equipped with a camera on their phone the recording of all activity is immense. The Boston marathon bombing is a good case and point. Law enforcement can now crowd source criminal investigation. Add to that the geo-locating of images and, well, it's a brave new world.

I've always said to folks that everything they do on the internet is forever. Maybe now need to amend that to say everything they do is forever.

[Wesley Mouch]

Abuse is a valid issue. The best way to avoid abuse is disclosure. Allow citizens to see what's on the cameras. Go to the internet and see live what they are looking at -- with a 15 minute delay. You can spot abuse if its happening.

Not using a technology because abuse is possible is pretty stupid. Set reasonable rules. Create reasonable access to see if rules are being followed.

In a city like Detroit with crime as it is, I'll even take a small dose of abuse if it helps control crime. The important result is public safety and a vibrant city, done with large dose of freedom.