Secret cameras would aim to deter crime in Jacksonville neighborhoods

Possible cameras to be used for covert use, locations would be secret

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Secret cameras could be coming to a neighborhood near you, especially if it's known for violence.

The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said it will be obtaining them for covert use and their actual locations would be secret.

One neighbor who lives near downtown said that she doesn't like the idea.

"I'm just uncomfortable that I'm on camera being watched," the neighbor said.

For some it's an invasion of privacy, but others believe it will deter crime and violence.

Earlier this week at Fourth Avenue and Clyde Drive in north Jacksonville, a 17-year-old's body was discovered by children near the bus stop. Police said neighbors heard gunshots but they haven't said how the teen died.

Another woman, who lives nearby and also wants remain anonymous, said that she welcomes covert cameras.

"I don't care if one is on my front door or my back door because something needs to be done. Something needs to be done to cut down on the crime," the woman said. "I've had break-ins between 10 and 12 in the morning. It's disheartening when you can't go to the post office and come back because someone has broken into your house."

A JSO spokesperson said that if it happens, they will make sure the program doesn't violate any privacy issues. At this point, it's not clear where the cameras would go up or how many would be purchased.