Police want cameras in downtown Houma

Houma police and Terrebonne Parish authorities are encouraging business owners to help out with an effort to protect all of downtown Houma with surveillance cameras.

There are 40-50 cameras in downtown Houma now, police Sgt. Albert Pierre said. But, he said, there are still areas that are not covered.

Authorities are looking for business owners to put up money for new cameras and give police access to existing surveillance systems, according to The Courier.

Police Lt. Bobbie O’Bryan said the department has been adding cameras to downtown each year for the past six years. They were mainly paid for by a federal grant. However, officials said they want to increase the visibility and reach of the cameras to help identify potential suspects.

“It’s a proven fact of reducing crime. If the person believes he’s going to be apprehended, he’s going to think twice,” said Houma Police Chief Todd Duplantis.

On Jan. 23, about eight lights installed in the steps of Memorial Park on Main Street were smashed. Cameras, which are monitored in the Terrebonne Arts Council Office, were able to identify several teens, Duplantis said.

Pierre said the teens have not been charged yet because he is awaiting a damage estimate.

Cameras posted near the City Club on Main Street were key in solving a 2007 murder. “The video was a true eyewitness,” O’Bryan said.

Mike Fesi Jr., owner of City Club, said he thinks more cameras can help downtown Houma, though they would need to be put in the right places.

“If they want to help security, put lights up,” Fesi said. “Cameras up in front of buildings would help, but (problems) really happen in the parking lots.’’