Smile, you're on candid camera.
The University of Memphis parking services has started taking digital pictures of cars with major parking violations, Diane Hale, parking services manager, said.
Digital pictures are used to verify a parking violation, Hale said. The pictures are used as evidence for major violations such as any handicap violation, fire violations, towing and blocking another vehicle.
When parking assistants issue a ticket, they use a hand-held computer that prints a hard copy of the ticket for the violator, Hale said. When a picture is taken, it is matched to the ticket and posted to the violator's account the following morning with the ticket.
Hale said there are many benefits to taking digital pictures. One, it keeps the staff accountable and protects the integrity of the ticket-writing process. Two, it serves as evidence when a violator disputes a ticket. Third, it provides both parties with information of what was observed.
"The digital pictures are very helpful when someone is disputing a ticket," Hale said. "When you have a picture as evidence, most people get quiet and quit arguing."
The pictures provide both parties with information about what was observed, Hale said. The pictures are not used to incriminate a violator. However, they have been helpful in clearing up the facts and circumstances in an individual's mind. Digital pictures are a good avenue for both parties to resolve an issue.
"If the parking staff makes a mistake, then we will admit it and correct it," Hale said. "But, if the staff is right, then the person that received the ticket should use the information provided to correct their actions."
Some students on campus said they think taking the pictures is a good idea.
"I think taking the picture is fair when used for serious violations," said Troy Davis, junior management major. "The picture is good for the offender, it could exonerate them."
"The pictures are good for major violators," Cherilyn Anson, freshman psychology major, said. "Some people tend to take advantage of the system, that should hold them accountable."
A student who wished to remain anonymous said, "I don't care if I park illegally. I care about getting to class on time and getting the closest parking space possible."
Hale provided a few tips of "motherly advice" about parking. One, don't ever let another person borrow your hangtag. Two, if you find a hangtag, do not use it, and return it to parking services immediately. Three, use common sense when parking -- don't park illegally.
