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BPD Keeps Closer Eye on Red, White & Que

When tens of thousands of visitors converge at Haworth for the annual Riverfest and Red, White & Que competition this weekend, Bellevue Police will have a better view of the action. BPD is testing a portable digital video surveillance system which will allow them to have a high quality video surveillance view of the entire island.

The previous surveillance system allows for a video signal back to the command post and police headquarters from cameras mounted on the command post and the stage at the Riverfest. But the new system will add four digital video cameras to the two and officers will be able to view the signal from anywhere they can get an internet connection.

BPD Sergeant Larry Lampman said the use of the cameras will give them a crystal clear picture of the activities. He added, "By using these cameras we will have an eye on the entire island. There will be no blind spots on the island any more." Underage drinking is one of the main problems police deal with during the event. Lampman says the video quality of these cameras should allow them to be able to see the color of the arm band attendees are wearing, and therefore determine if they’re too young to be drinking.

Bellevue will add six officers to the Community Policing Unit to work the festival. Officers from LaVista PD and Omaha PD will also assist. Red, White & Que runs Friday and Saturday, July 18th and 19th.

Photo: 2007 Red, White & Que B-B-Quers