There's a renewed focus at Winnipeg City Hall to install security cameras in high crime areas.
St. James - Brooklands councillor Scott Fielding says he wants to see security cameras put in place in a number of locations around the city.
Fielding tells CTV News the cameras could be a valuable tool for the Winnipeg Police Service, and could be a major deterrent for potential criminals.
A number of cities across North America already use the cameras. Fielding says police in cities like Chicago and Minneappolis have made many arrests because of the images captured by the cameras.
Winnipeg police have already used private security cameras in their investigations. Late last year, police made an arrest in a sexual assault on a young girl after they released video images of the car used by the suspect.
Where would they go?
Fielding says it would be up to police to decide the best locations for the cameras. Police would also be responsible for monitoring them.
Fielding plans to bring up a motion at city hall next week, and says Mayor Sam Katz plans to support it.
New chief supports the idea
Meantime, the new chief of the Winnipeg Police Service says his service has started looking at using cameras.
"We've been looking at it," says Keith McCaskill. "It would assist us in improving downtown."
McCaskill adds that while he's in favour of the plan, more research needs to be done.
