Newark to use cameras to combat violence

Scores of surveillance cameras and gunshot detectors will be installed in high-crime areas in an effort to combat spiraling gun violence in Newark, the mayor announced Tuesday, 10 days after three college students were killed in a schoolyard.

Mayor Cory A. Booker said he believed the $3.2 million program would produce the most extensive such network in any American city. It will be funded by public and private donations.

Nearly three dozen cameras already were in use at the time of the killings the night of Aug. 4, but the total is expected to reach more than 120 when all are in place by next summer.

"We made a pledge when we came into office that we would focus on this problem as the No. 1 measure of our success," Booker said. "We have commitments now to put Newark, New Jersey, on the cutting edge of using technology to prevent crime."

Four young friends were attacked in a schoolyard not far from their homes. The three who were killed were forced to kneel against a wall and were then shot in the head at close range. The fourth, Natasha Aeriel, 19, also was shot in the head but survived and has been able to help identify suspects.

The gunshot detectors, which Booker said can pinpoint the location of shots "to within feet," and about 50 of the cameras will be installed in a 7- to 8-square-mile area where most shootings occur in New Jersey's largest city.

A similar program using gunshot detection in nearby East Orange has led to a decrease in shootings this year, officials said last month.

Authorities have said robbery appeared to be the motive in the schoolyard slayings.

Three people have been arrested _ two unidentified 15-year-olds and a 28-year-old man who was freed on bail this year after being charged with assault and child rape. Authorities also have obtained a warrant for a 24-year-old man and are searching for two other juveniles.