UK's Public Cameras Listen For Trouble

You're probably already aware of the United Kingdom's large network of video cameras inspecting public places. News.com now reports that they'll be listening for trouble as well. Based on a model in use in the Netherlands, new cameras will be fitted to 'listen for aggressive tones,' such as those used during an argument. From the article: "The system works by putting microphones in CCTV cameras to continually analyze the sound in the surrounding area. If aggressive tones are picked up, an alarm signal is automatically sent to the police, who can zoom in the camera to the location of the suspect sound and investigate the situation. 'Ninety percent of violent cases start with verbal aggression,' Van der Vorst said. 'With our system, the police can respond a lot quicker to a violent situation.'"

They don't have fire hoses attached... yet

[heli0]

The cameras now have attached megaphones so they can scold you as well.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/new s/news.html?in_article_id=405477&in_page_id=1770 [dailymail.co.uk]

The system allows control room operators who spot any anti-social acts - from dropping litter to late-night brawls - to send out a verbal warning: 'We are watching you'.

They Dutch model is working different

[Reemi]

The Dutch system, and I could not determine from the article if this is valid for the UK system as well, is continuesly filming but does not store the data.

Once a certain sound is detected, the camera starts to record, including a previous time span (30 or 60 seconds) from the past. People are even advised to shout when being attacked or witnessing a crime!!

This means, normal day privacy is protected and crime can be fought very efficient. The people living in that concerned district love the system.

Re:cue the typical slashdot indignation

[Jah-Wren Ryel]

in every single aspect of life you can imagination, moderation always wins. balance always wins.

Tell that to all the people in North Korea. Or Saudi Arabia.

Re:When did aggressive tones become a crime?

[eighty4]

IANAL (but I do have a law degree in the UK) and assault is defined as causing the victim to legitimately "fear for their immediate public safety" - no physical contact is necessary.

Therefore, in the right circumstances agressive tones could constitute assault.