Detroit's 'Project Green Light' aims to stop crime at gas stations

DETROIT – It was just months ago when Detroit Police Chief James Craig said he wouldn't stop at a gas station in the city at night.

Now, "Project Green Light" is expected to be a game-changer for the city's crime-plague gas stations. Eight stations are using their money to put up lights and cameras to stop criminal action at their businesses. They're paying for the hardware and software to send the feed to the Detroit police headquarters.

"This is a great first step and it's going to expand beyond that," said Craig.

Mayor Mike Duggan summed up why the cameras are needed now.

"Here's what this is about: The violence level in this city is not acceptable," he said.

It's already working. Police were after a shooting suspect just days ago. Officers checked to see if he went into a nearby "Green Light" gas station -- he did. Police had his photo in an instant, put it out and the suspect turned himself in.


About the Author:

Local 4 Defender Shawn Ley is an Emmy award-winning journalist who has been with Local 4 News for more than a decade.