CUMBERLAND — The Cumberland Economic Development Corporation recently purchased a new mobile video surveillance unit funded by a grant provided by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development.
The trailer was deployed to Riverside Park where officials said it has shown success in deterring crimes and allowing effective response from police.
The mobile unit can monitor and record activity in a given area. It will be deployed on an as-needed basis to locations where there is currently no active surveillance infrastructure, officials said.
The CEDC partnered with the Cumberland Police Department to increase the safety in the city.
“Cumberland Police Department and I would like to express our appreciation for our partnership with the CEDC and their support for public safety,” Chief Chuck Ternent said. “CEDC has worked diligently to support our local economy by obtaining grant funds to increase and modernize our surveillance network. By adding a mobile video surveillance trailer to our fleet, we can now monitor activity remotely in any areas of concern throughout the city. This gives our department more eyes on any problem location within the city limits and is a game-changer in our efforts to address crime and enhance community safety.”
The unit can be utilized anywhere with cellphone service and a moderate amount of sunlight. The trailer has several applications and can be placed in specific trouble locations prone to criminal activity, festivals and special events and monitoring city-owned assets.
“Neighborhood Safety is a key and often overlooked said Matt Miller, executive director of the CEDC. “Providing a sense of safety and security to our patrons and visitors is vital in supporting our local businesses and tourism. Simply put — if people feel unsafe, they won’t visit, shop or dine.”
The trailer has four cameras and two motion detection cameras to monitor the unit itself and deter vandalism. It also has two-way audio for remote communication, and each camera is equipped with AI tracking technology. The trailer’s recorded video provides necessary proof for investigations.