Downtown security cameras still in use on “as needed basis”

Eight security cameras installed throughout downtown in 2011 are still in use by Columbia Police on an “as needed basis.”

City spokesperson Steve Sapp confirmed Wednesday that the cameras are still active and told ABC 17 News that the city has a contractor who does repair work as needed.

ABC 17 News reported back in 2016 when the maintenance contract for the cameras expired due to cost concerns.

Sapp said one camera was fixed in early July and another was recently replaced through a warranty.

ABC 17 News sent an inquiry about the use of security cameras after two separate shootings downtown over the weekend. The cameras were installed seven years ago to help stop and solve crimes.

Sapp also said Columbia Police officers have been doing extra patrols frequently downtown and are planning on doing so for the next several weeks.

He said the extra patrols are not in response to last weekend’s shootings but is something CPD does regularly when school is about to start.