Ever wondered what really matters when setting up security cameras for your business?

Downtown Van was proud to host a fascinating workshop with a VPD forensic video analyst as a pre-requisite for accessing our new Business Security Camera Fund.

The Video Evidence Game-Changer

Forensic video expert Chris Sinkewicz walked workshop attendees through how police use video footage to build cases for prosecution. His presentation boiled down to two key insights: 

  1. Personal Identification: Who is this person? Think faces, tattoos, details that distinguish clothing or outfits, such as specific logos or patches. 
  2. Action Identification: What exactly did they do? How did they move, what did they touch? What were their methods? 

Persistent or repeat non-violent offenders may already be known to police, so having well-lit, well-framed footage could make the difference between a positive ID and case. 

Camera Choice and Placement

Forget about those fancy 360-degree ceiling cameras or those with features that use AI to place colourful blocks around people. Instead, prioritize placement in strategic places at eye level . Why? Because that’s where you’ll get the best facial recognition and clearest view of actions. 

Some of our key takeaways
  • Lighting is critical – most cameras require light to work. Infra-red cameras capture fewer details than desirable.
  • Consider “choke points” where people must pass through 
  • Think about positions that could capture both personal identification (Eye-level, which sees under hoods or caps) and action, which shows what the suspect did – their route, method, and illegal behaviour. 
  • Don’t just rely on technology. Combine cameras with good locks and bright lighting. 
Real Talk on Property Crime: Why Every Report Matters

Business owners shared raw, honest experiences about repeated property crimes. The consensus? The system feels frustrating, but persistent reporting creates change. Here’s why: 

  • Each report builds a data picture for police 
  • Helps justify proactive patrols 
  • Can lead to provincial or federal funding for safety initiatives 
  • Potentially helps catch repeat offenders 
Reporting Strategies:
  • Use online reporting systems 
  • Document everything, even minor incidents 
  • Build relationships – both with your local business liaison and your local business association 
  • Members may consider registering for one of Downtown Van’s upcoming Online Reporting workshops  
The Big Picture

Downtown Van is working hard to transform these challenges. During our meet and greets, our ambassadors do more than field concerns or complaints – their statistics collection builds comprehensive strategies to address root causes. 

We continue to advocate for the province to make targeted investments and structural reforms in the areas of mental health, addiction recovery, bail reform, and public safety. This includes expanding supportive housing, holistic treatment options, and skills-based recovery programs that empower individuals to successfully reintegrate into society. 

Additionally, we have urged the province to take stronger action on repeat non-violent offenders by increasing the number of Crown Prosecutors, strengthening penalties for repeat offences, and expanding restorative justice initiatives. 

Downtown Van also continues to support and lobby for additional resources and funding for policing within the district, ensuring a proactive and community-based approach to crime prevention. 

Final Takeaway

Security isn’t about perfection. It’s about layers: good cameras, proper placement, consistent reporting, and community collaboration. 

Remember: Every report, every camera angle, every conversation is a step towards a safer business environment.