AI technology is now being used to analyse and categorise illegal behaviour across Logan as dozens of new mobile and covert cameras are added to the city’s surveillance network.
Around 1400 cameras surveilling hundreds of local streets, parks and public areas are monitored by police and Logan City Council 24/7 in a camera room at council chambers.
An AI visual analysis technology has been launched to make foraging through the slew of footage simpler and faster.
According to council, staff can now condense up to 24 hours of footage into brief, two to five minute clips featuring particular characteristics.
These could include descriptions such as “red cars” or “people with backpacks”.
“What could have taken hours, will now take moments, when police are searching for people or the movements of vehicles through an area,” council said in a statement.
The technology has also helped council more quickly respond to public nuisance incidents, such as abandoned vehicles, dumped shopping trolleys or the posting of illegal signs.
Twelve more mobile cameras and 24 covert cameras will also assist with more efficient responses.
Council claims the covert cameras are only used when there is a “particular concern about the security of an area, or where a suspected offence may be occurring”.
Mayor Jon Raven said the camera network improvements would help Logan remain the best place in south-east Queensland to raise a family.
“It means police can respond more quickly to crimes happening in our communities, or better investigate incidents that have already occurred,” he said.
“This technology isn’t just about responding to crime, with more eyes on illegal dumping, graffiti and littering, it means we can keep our streets clean.
“The rollout of new AI technology, alongside the deployment of more mobile cameras, is a game changer for our community and their peace of mind.”
Approximately 30 new cameras are installed in Logan every year.
Police use these cameras for information more than 1000 times a month.
Historically, the network captures information on more than 20% of police incidents.
Logan City Council said it continued to operate in line with the Information Privacy Act 2009 to protect the rights of individuals.
