Air Force Academy Invests in Thousands of Security Cameras

Air Force Academy Invests in Thousands of Security Cameras

The U.S. Air Force Academy is increasing cadet safety and security with the installation of security cameras.

  • By Sydny Shepard
  • Feb 25, 2019

The U.S. Air Force Academy has installed several thousand CCTV cameras on campus over the past year to create a safer environment for cadets and to deter criminal behavior. 

The installation of the cameras was brought up at a recent subcommittee hearing following the release of the annual Pentagon report on sexual assault and harassment at the academies. The report's anonymous survey found that 747 students said they experience unwanted sexual contact within the last year, nearly a 50 percent increase from 507 students in 2016. 

During the hearing Rep. John Carter, R-Texas, discuses how male and female cadets live in the dorms of the academies within their cadet companies and what can be done about their behavior when leaders are not there.

Lt. Gen. Jay Silveria, the Colorado academy's superintendent, said that the academy is responsible for working harder to build a "culture of accountability: and that their leadership education has senior cadets who are about to become Air Force officers take responsibility for what happens in their company. 

Silveria said the safety and security of cadets are his responsibility.

"So we've installed thousands of CCTV cameras throughout our dorms for safety and security," Silveria said.

The cameras were added to an existing system, according to a spokesperson for the U.S. Air Force Academy. They were approved in 2017 and their installation began in May 2018. The installation should be complete this year.

The cameras were installed in common areas at cadet dorms, including hallways, entrances and exits, study and TV rooms, stairwells and rooftops. They are not being placed in private areas, such as cadet rooms, locker rooms, officers or restrooms, the spokesperson said.

"The effort is ongoing and is intended to enhance the safety and security of out cadets," Silveria said. "Additional, the units serve as a deterrent against criminal conduct, and provide footage for investigations in the event that an incident occurs."

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

Featured

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

  • Security Today Announces 2025 CyberSecured Award Winners

    Security Today is pleased to announce the 2025 CyberSecured Awards winners. Sixteen companies are being recognized this year for their network products and other cybersecurity initiatives that secure our world today. Read Now

  • Empowering and Securing a Mobile Workforce

    What happens when technology lets you work anywhere – but exposes you to security threats everywhere? This is the reality of modern work. No longer tethered to desks, work happens everywhere – in the office, from home, on the road, and in countless locations in between. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.