I'm a police officer of almost ten years. We recently outfitted several busy intersections in my city with these big brother cameras. I am TOTALLY against this. Each city, including mine, has said that "safety" is their main concern. Reeaaally??? As a patrol officer I can tell you that these are the most unsafe technological contraptions yet!

First off, you're approaching the intersection where cameras are in place (there are signs everywhere informing drivers). All of the sudden you realize your probably not going to make it through before the red light. So you slam on your brakes causing 3-4 cars behind you to crash into eachother. I've seen it.

Secondly, these cameras have bright flashes that go off whenever a photo is snapped. These literally blind you for several seconds. The first time I saw one of these go off at night I had to sit for a few seconds before I could drive. Yep, "safety" is a concern, lets blind drivers!

Finally, as an officer I am required to prove a driver actually committed the offense I cite them for. Which means that I have to witness a vehicle commit a violation, stop the vehicle in question, and make contact with the driver. If I cannot prove that the driver committed an offense, in my presence, then I have no justification for a citation. It would be like me stopping a vehicle just for the hell of it and issuing a citation for speeding. "But Officer.....", "Now I know you weren't speeding just now but I'm pretty sure you have exceeded the speed limit at some point today." These cameras are a complete violation of law!!

The local governments installing these are using "safety" as a crutch for extra money. Even though most cities are having to take them down because they cost more to maintain then the department actually makes back!! Sorry for the rant but I feel very strongly about this. Thoughts anyone?