Shawnee County Department of Corrections Deploys High-Definition Surveillance System

  • Feb 27, 2012

The Shawnee County Department of Corrections (SNDOC) in Topeka, Kan., deployed a new high-definition surveillance system to heighten security, expedite investigations, and ultimately, improve inmate behavior.

Faced with more than 300 incidents of inmate misconduct each year including assault, theft, vandalism, and fraud, the SNDOC was unable to deliver the video evidence needed to successfully investigate and prosecute most of these cases with its previous analog-based surveillance system.

“Our investigations were at best crippled and in most cases utterly worthless,” said Captain Timothy Phelps. “Since deploying the Avigilon high-definition surveillance system, we`ve easily tripled the number of cases we have sent for prosecution and they have all been successful.”

Corrections personnel manage the Avigilon high-definition surveillance solution using the Avigilon Control Center network video management software (NVMS) with High-Definition Stream Management (HDSM) technology. The department installed 110 Avigilon HD cameras ranging from 5MP to 16MP, including Panoramic 180 and 360 IP dome cameras with audio recording, in each housing module, secure hallways, main parking lot, and entrances and installed 79 Avigilon analog video encoders to improve the performance and manageability of its existing analog cameras.

The SNDOC monitors the system around-the-clock and stores 30 days of continuous surveillance video on six Avigilon Network Video Recorders (NVRs.) The Avigilon high-definition surveillance system has also been integrated into SNDOC's electronic security system that controls access at secure entrances for those who do not have access control cards.

Leveraging the image clarity, advanced search capabilities, and audio functionality of the Avigilon high-definition surveillance system, the department can resolve incidents much faster and more accurately than before, dramatically enhancing inmate and staff safety, improving inmate conduct, and boosting staff productivity. The department has also realized a notable cost savings because it has been able to reduce the number of false liability claims filed by inmates. SNDOC can also resolve staff-related issues much more efficiently than before, saving time, boosting management credibility, and enhancing employee performance.

“As a leading correctional facility in North America, the Shawnee County Department of Corrections is always embracing new solutions that promote accountability, respect, and cooperation within its walls,” said Keith Marett, vice president of marketing and communications at Avigilon. “By choosing Avigilon, the Department has invested in the most advanced high-definition surveillance solution available to help deliver the highest level of safety and security possible for inmates, staff, and the community at large.”

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