The Fayette

County Sheriff's Department now has another weapon in the battle against

crime a computer system that allows it to digitize surveillance video

from crime scenes.

The system

allows detectives to create broadcast-quality still and video images to

disseminate to media if the public's assistance is ever needed in apprehending

a suspect, said Det. Mike Whitlow. In the past, doing so took several

hours or more but now the task can be accomplished in just a few minutes,

Whitlow added.

"This

kind of system is really going to change law enforcement," Whitlow

said.

Although local

stores use a variety of surveillance systems, the AVID computer system

is compatible with and can review all those videos, Whitlow said. Previously,

the videos could only be reviewed on the premises of the store, which

could be particularly difficult when a jury needed to review a tape for

a particular case, said Lt. Mahlon Donald.

The AVID system

can focus on one or more camera angles that are recorded on a single tape.

It can also be used to enhance footage from a patrol car camera or other

videotapes if necessary to identify a suspect, Whitlow added.

The system

is so specialized that investigators must receive specialized training

so its capabilities can be fully realized. Detectives are planning to

review tapes from previously reported crimes to see if there is additional

evidence that could lead to a particular suspect, Whitlow added.

Maj. Bruce

Jordan, the director of investigations for the Sheriff's Department, said

the system, which cost $25,000, was expensive but will prove to be worth

it.

Plus, he added,

it was purchased with no taxpayer funds since the money came from a settlement

paid for property seized by the Sheriff's Department in the investigation

of a stolen tractor and farm equipment ring that operated throughout the

Southeast.