
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SUNDAY, November 14, 1993                   TAG: 9311120033
SECTION: CURRENT                    PAGE: NRV-7   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: New River Valley bureau
DATELINE: WYTHEVILLE                                LENGTH: Short

PATROL CARS IN WYTHEVILLE TO SPORT CANDID CAMERAS

Police patrol cars are getting video cameras to record arrests. Police say the cameras, with zoom lenses, are better able to read license plates than human eyes.

"The conviction of offenders is more likely with a video image to back up the officer's testimony," said Capt. Larry Groseclose.

Remote microphones attached to the the officer's uniform will record conversations to go along with the videotape. Such materials have proved handy elsewhere in securing convictions for reckless driving, drunken driving and other unlawful conduct.

The tapes also will be used for training, because they can provide actual situations for new officers to see. They also can help identify vehicles and people, police said.

by CNB