Before weighing in on the red-light camera issue, I think it important that people do a little research first. Google “spy in the sky” and “redlight cameras” on your computer and see what you come up with.

If these cameras were used simply to increase safety, I would be all for them. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Several issues come to light once you look into them a little further. These cameras are tied into a network of spyware that is an invasion of our civil liberties, and can be used for much more than just issuing tickets.

Also, five independent studies have shown that red-light cameras actually increase accidents (National Motorists Association) instead of making intersections safer. It has also been proven that cities who install the cameras are more interested in increased revenue than safety. If it’s not about the money, then prove it! The cities have contracted with a company in Arizona that leases, installs and maintains these cameras for one reason: profit.

Furthermore, these cameras take pictures of the license plate, and do not give a clear picture of who is driving the vehicle, so the owner of the vehicle is issued the ticket whether they were driving or not. Several attorneys have stated that these “picture citations” are easy to beat in court, so it would seem that the increased cost of courtroom appearances would outweigh the benefit of the cameras.

People who speed and run red lights already know that they are breaking the law, and risk being cited. Lastly, remember that being paranoid doesn’t mean that people aren’t really watching you. Please help protect our Constitution and civil liberties, and say “no” to red-light cameras. I could go on, but space does not permit it.

Jim Daniel
Gold Bar