July 12, 2011

 

Where not to install CCTV is often the difficult question, rather than where should it be installed. How about in doctor's offices? I get that question from time to time. My answer has been, sure, install it, just make sure its not hidden and not focused in such a way to invade expected privacy. Sometimes the use of cameras can serve a higher purpose and good.

My local newspaper reported the arrest of a pediatrician who was charged with drugging and sexually abusing at last seven young patients, all under the guise of medical treatment. This case shouldn't be too hard to prove for the district attorney because this idiot doctor used a hidden camera to videotape his naked patients in the exam room. Presumably the authorities have the videos. I guess the charge of unlawful surveillance is the least of this guy's problems. This activity has apparently been going on for 4 years. I suppose that had the CCTV been open and obvious and monitored by a central station this activity would have been report long ago [I am not seriously advocating such monitoring - though it may have some merit with some refinement]

It's not likely that a licensed alarm installed installed this CCTV equipment. There is no mention in the article about who installed the system. I guess the point of this article is to simply point out that if a licensed alarm company did install the equipment it's likely that the installer would be dragged into this mess, possibly was an accomplice.

Cameras in areas where there is any question of expectation of privacy should not be covert, but open and obvious. Even in those situations, there should be no cameras in areas that are off limits by statute, such as bathrooms and changing areas.