Few changes underway after an attack on the Monon
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Mike Bates can see it all from his office. Cameras strategically placed around the city can show him traffic on Rural Street, pedestrians on Capitol Avenue, and bikers riding along the Monon Trail.
“I wish we had a lot more of them,” said Bates, who is the Deputy Director of Indianapolis Homeland Security.
There are just two cameras along the 18 mile stretch of the Monon Trail. Each camera can send video to a server that can store images for 30 days.
It’s estimated that on a good day, 4,000 people will pass through the trail.
On a Saturday afternoon, part of those that pass through were a group of teens that attacked a man who was just walking.
No cameras caught the attack because there are no cameras in that area.
Since the attack, Indianapolis Homeland Security has increased the frequency of patrols by park rangers.
The department is also warning those using the popular site to remain watchful.
Recently, crews have been sent to the area to clear back brush or branches that may hurt the visibility of the cameras. There are concerns overgrown areas can create a place for potential criminals to hide.
“As long as you are in pairs or groups, it’s important to remain vigilant,” said Bates.
Back in 2013, the cameras along the trail were broken. Since then, the cameras have been fixed.
“We are allotted a lot of money. As they break, we are able to fix it,” said Bates.
Police are still looking for information in the attack. You can call Crime Stoppers with tips at 317-262-TIPS (8477).
