Police to use surveillance cameras during Hot August Nights

Wednesday, July 14, 1999 | 9:31 a.m.

But Police Chief Jerry Hoover on Tuesday assured City Council members that officers will be kinder while trying to keep the peace and avoid a repeat of last year's downtown melee that led to the arrest of more than 200 people.

Citing complaints of police brutality last year, Hoover said the cameras will also help sort out what happened in the event of similar accusations this year.

"If police are doing something wrong, we'll have video of it," he said.

Deputy Chief Jim Johns said officers will attempt to enforce ordinances prohibiting public drinking by persuading revelers to keep their alcoholic beverages off the streets.

But he added that officers will arrest anyone if they are grossly intoxicated, violent or disturbing the peace to the point where safety is threatened.

The city's annual tribute to classic cars runs Aug. 2-7.

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