TUPD installs cameras in dorms
The department of housing and residence life is working to install a total of 100 security cameras in Monroe and Sharp halls to improve security in these dorms.
The cameras are part of a pilot program and may be extended to other residence halls on campus, funding permitting.
“The cameras are being added to these communities to enhance the overall security of each building in public areas, especially entrances, exits and lounge areas,” said Celena Trahan, assistant director of housing services. “The university supports fully the need to enhance security measures, and several students suggested these features to the administration last year.”
While students appreciate the concern for their safety, many feel their privacy is being unduly violated.
The Tulane University Police Department will have the ability to look at the footage in efforts to identify those responsible for crimes and vandalism.
“TUPD and only a few HRL professionals will have access,” Trahan said. “TUPD upon our request will be the reviewer.”
Campus police say they were not involved in the installation of the cameras. They will use them in the case of investigations, but do not have the manpower to monitor all the cameras at all times.
“We have the capacity to go back and look at the footage, but there won’t be anyone monitoring the cameras,” TUPD Chief Danny Lawless said.
HRL officials said they are taking steps to ensure students’ privacy.
“The camera systems overlook hallways, stairwells, common lounges and study areas,” Trahan said. “There is no surveillance of student rooms or restrooms, and it is important to us that your personal privacy is maintained.”
Some residents of these buildings said that though they understood the reasoning behind the cameras, they felt they were unnecessary.
“I could understand why they did it because they want to know who is doing stuff,” Monroe resident Sarah Mollere said. “I’m not really for it, but I think there are other ways to find out without watching us.”
The addition of security cameras to Sharp and Monroe are pilot programs and other dorms may install cameras at a later date.
“[It] will be expanded on a case-by-case basis and as funding is available,” Trahan said.