Criminals’ use of surveillance, motion sensors to be outlawed next year

SPRINGFIELD – Video cameras and motion sensors are being added to the list of illegal booby traps under a new law sponsored by state Sen. Bill Haine, D-Alton, that takes effect next year.

Haine pushed for the proposal – HB 4269 – in the Senate to update the existing law that targets drug dealers who fortify buildings against law enforcement.

“This law will help police investigations and potentially save lives. If drug dealers set up cameras or motion sensors warning them when the police are coming, it gives them a chance to escape, destroy evidence or worse,” Haine said.

Haine worked with State Rep. Jerry Costello, D-Smithton, to get the proposal through the General Assembly and to the governor’s desk.

It is currently illegal to booby trap a building in order to obstruct police. The list of criminal fortifications includes alarm systems, cross bars, steel doors and the use of dogs.

The new legal provisions take effect Jan. 1. The governor signed the measure in August.