Cameras strung up in neighborhoods conjures up an Orwellian vision of “big brother,” but in Natchez, those eyes in the sky may very well be what’s needed to curb violent crime.

A recent project announced in Natchez has put up nearly a dozen security cameras in undisclosed locations across the city to monitor crime.

The program, made possible through New Orleans nonprofit Project NOLA, focused high-tech cameras in areas of traditionally high crime.

Two of the Natchez cameras even include the ability to detect gunshots automatically and have zooming capability to allow law enforcement officers to clearly see more than 1,000 feet away.

Installation was completed approximately two weeks ago and police officials say the cameras have already aided in the arrest of one person.

Additional cameras cost approximately $150 each, which seem like bargains considering the possible lives and property they could save.

We applaud the city for working to locate and implement the system.

And we hope more cameras are installed soon to potentially quell more violence in our community.

We can get used to having big brother around if his watchful eyes keep the city safer.