Surveillance cameras at the Boston Marathon turned out to be a key tool used to identify the bombing suspects.
Pelco by Schneider Electric in Clovis is one of the world's leading manufactures of surveillance cameras, so CBS47 asked them about the latest advances in cameras and we also checked with the Fresno Police on how they use thermal imaging cameras.
Jeff Lougee is a tactical flight officer with the Fresno Police Department. Jeff showed us the forward-looking infrared radar system or FLIR that he uses, which may have helped Boston police track down their second suspect.
The system highlights anything that's hot or warm. It can see through a tarp on a boat or under a tree. "We'll be able to pick it up a lot better with thermal imaging vs a spotlight and our own eyes," said Lougee.
Using thermal imaging, Lougee directs officers on the ground directly to the suspects below.
In the case of the Boston incident, surveillance placed a huge role.
Dave Dalleske, Vice President of Marketing at Pelco by Schneider Electric says surveillance cameras have gotten a lot better over the years and allow law enforcement an advantage they didn't have before. "In the last few years, the technology has advanced. We've now transpired to the digital age, so we're providing one mega pixel; two mega pixel; or three mega pixel products, which help with higher resolution images - helps to provide better identification," said Dalleske.
Better resolution means better results.
"Its invaluable. You can't put a price on this technology. This is the perfect tool for any law enforcement agency that's out there," said Lougee.
As for those who worry that camera's are encroaching on personal privacy and freedoms... Dalleske says the Boston attack proves, sometimes more cameras are better.