Sanibel city leaders plan to add 30 cameras to island

SANIBEL, Fla.- WINK News uncovered plans to spend $660,000 to add cameras to the beaches of Sanibel. City leaders say the cameras will help to cut down on crime.

It started with just one camera and grew to 87. Now, Sanibel is adding 30 more cameras all over the island.

The additional cameras will be installed in the upcoming months. The first one popped up 15 years ago, then the numbers grew as crime on the island began to shrink.

“One of our largest crimes on Sanibel had been automobile burglaries and since we have been installing these systems, we have almost completely eliminated that crime,” said Sanibel Police Chief Bill Tomlinson.

Some island visitors were in favor of the cameras after finding out they helped cut down crime. Others refuse to accept it, calling it a double-edged sword.

“Two sides, let’s say an old lady got robbed, it might serve something but I’m not doing anything, just walking here but I am still being watched,” said Steven Hessakkers.

New cameras will be installed near Bowman’s Beach, the lighthouse and City Hall. More will be added to the Sanibel Causeway and other areas.

The project’s price tag also includes a surveillance hub, hoping to catch any possible crime suspects.

Author: Christina Lusby

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