How Virginia Commonwealth University’s large security camera system adds to campus safety

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Virginia Commonwealth University’s (VCU) vast security camera system has continued to aid VCU Police officers in investigations, according to officials, as well as contributing to the safety of university students, faculty and staff.

According to a VCU News article , the university has a system of more than 1,800 cameras located across both the Monroe Park and MCV campuses, which are strategically placed to cover the most traversed areas.

The cameras allow officers to pull usable photo or video evidence in cases against people, crimes against property, vehicle crashes, missing persons and more, according to the university.

“Ultimately, there are not many places on the [Monroe Park] or MCV campus that a person could go and not be caught on camera,” said Lee Olds, interim deputy chief of VCU Police, in VCU News’ report. “The goal [for the camera system] is to catch the person committing the crime, coming or going from the scene, or all of the above.”

However, the camera system is passive, which means that video feeds are not actively monitored 24/7. According to the report, while cameras can be used for live monitoring, officers primarily pull footage from a specific location once a crime or accident is reported.

The camera system is authorized by VCU’s Campus Security Camera System policy , which was first adopted in 2015. The policy outlines VCU Police’s procedures to ensure privacy and confidentiality.

As part of the policy, video is retained only for about seven days, and the footage is only saved or archived when it is related to a criminal investigation or court proceeding, according to VCU.

Certain pathways around VCU’s campuses that connect academic buildings, gyms, libraries, medical buildings, residence halls and bus stops have been designated as RAMSWay routes .

The routes are marked with signs and have an increased presence by VCU Police, adequate lighting, emergency reporting telephones and significant security camera coverage.

According to the report, VCU has significantly upgraded security in VCU and VCU Health parking facilities in recent years, including security cameras and LED lighting.

From 2020 to 2023, the number of cameras in VCU Parking facilities grew from just over 100 to 651, according to the report. Additionally, all lighting in the decks is being upgraded to LED lighting.

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