Red Light Camera System Raises Red Flag

KTIV
Jan. 01, 2007

Cameras may soon make it easier for police to catch drivers running red lights. The city is signing a contract with Redflex Traffic Systems, of Arizona, to install the technology. But, as "Big Brother" snaps shots of drivers... some question if the cameras violate basic rights under the law.

You'll soon think twice about running a red light in Sioux City. Cameras will snap shots of cars going through red lights. The images will then be sent to the police department, where an officer will decide whether to write out a ticket. Police say the technology will put a dent in the number of travelers breaking the law and endangering public safety.

Captain Melvin Williams, Sioux City Police Department, says "We don't have the staff to monitor all the intersections in the city, so this is a way to be a force multiplier and handle the concerns of the public that's been brought forward to us."

But, there's a glitch. The cameras don't clearly show who's behind the wheel. Sioux City attorney, Robert Tiefenthaler, says police have to assume it's the owner of the vehicle. And he says that violates the driver's constitutional right to plead the 5th.

Robert Tiefenthaler, Attorney, says "You pay this amount of money or you sign an affidavit as to who the driver actually was. Well, this is really contrary to what our justice system has been because they are supposed to prove you guilty because you are presumed innocent."

Tiefenthaler says that problem of identification makes the cameras a poor substitute for

Tiefenthaler says "The difference is this... last time I checked... when you run a red light in front of a police officer, usually he stops you at that time and knows who the driver is. He doesn't wait three of four days or wait a couple of weeks and then send you a ticket in the mail saying I saw you run a light that day."

On top of that, insurance agencies hike up their rates for red light violators. But, some local agents say the cameras could end up cutting the bottom line.

Ralph Heese, a Sioux City insurance agent, says "Overall... slows the people down... less accidents... should see rates go down."

The technology will be up and running by May. For police, it's a solution. For others, its what the cameras don't see that's the problem.

The cameras will be put up at 11 intersections in Sioux City.