San Jose hands out security cameras to businesses in Alum Rock

A San Jose neighborhood is channeling the power of video to combat property crimes through a free program offered by the city.

The city on Thursday announced the distribution of free security cameras to business owners in Alum Rock.

During a news conference, the city showed off the 35 security camera systems it will give out to businesses that want them. Each system comes with four cameras.

The program cost the city $50,000.

At least four businesses in the area of Alum Rock Avenue and White Road have been hit recently. Peters’ Bakery has been targeted more than once in recent months, a tattoo parlor was held up in an armed robbery a month ago, and someone broke into a cellphone store a couple of weeks ago.

Councilmember Peter Ortiz, along with San Jose police, hope the free security cameras will help deter criminals in the neighborhood.

Dr. Hien Nguyen, head of the Alum Rock Village Business Association, said only about 40 to 50% of businesses in the area have security cameras. She agreed more cameras will help keep the business district safer and will give non-English-speaking business owners the confidence to come forward and report a crime.

“I like the fact that I have cameras up and that camera saying ‘we’re watching you,'” Nguyen said. “It’s just a deterrent, especially for people who decide to shoplift or who just want to throw trash here and there. That is great for our back parking lot, for keeping our city clean as well.”

Back in May 2022, San Jose launched a citywide capture crime program at a cost of $75,000 to provide a hard drive and free security cameras to small businesses. In all, 50 small businesses joined the pilot program.

The San Jose Police Department also has a program that allows business owners and homeowners to register their cameras with police.