Security cameras are mounted at strategic points throughout the Port of Los Angeles, keeping a sharp lookout for break-ins, boaters in peril and any suspicious activity. The advanced $13.9million camera system is among a series of security enhancements made at the nation’s busiest port in recent years. In total, the Port of Los Angeles has committed about $209million since 2002 to secure its waterways, ships and terminals. Over the next year, the port’s growing police force will move into a new station in San Pedro, while authorities install more cameras that may soon link to the Port of Long Beach, California Department of Transportation and the Los Angeles Police Department. … Four of the port’s cameras are capable of providing long-range, infrared images that can scan for activity up to 20 miles away. … In February, the port will team up with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department to provide maritime security training to local law enforcement agencies. “We’re doing everything we can to keep an eye on all port activity,” Port Police Chief Ronald Boyd said. “And we plan to be the example other ports follow.”

From the Daily Breeze, December 5, 2009