Subject: core values


We reinforce our core values more by discussing real instances of recent events that are worth discussing for their failures even more than the successful ones.  Part of our core values are in accepting the mistakes of employees and management and using those examples to learn and to not make similar errors.
At our core, is the understanding that our customers not only are needed, but also to truly care about our relationship with customers and to want to help them.  We treat customers & employees the way that we want to be treated.  We reinforce our values by complementing our team when they go beyond normal, in assisting customers & each other.  We also understand the importance of making a profit, but there are times when we need to sacrifice profit to correct mistakes and keep happy customers.

Barry Levine Founder & CEO
Sperry West A 30 year old manufacturer of body temperature warning cameras & covert video cameras for government & industry, to assist with catching criminals.

Construction Sites


Construction sites frequently experience theft by knowledgeable criminals, who are after tools as well as major construction equipment. These sites also attract less sophisticated burglars who are just looking to find something they can quickly sell. They now realize that with many police departments experiencing “defundingâ€, the likelihood of being caught is very slim. Even if they are caught, they will probably never be prosecuted.

Professional guards are absolutely required to secure most construction sites, but is that enough? Often the best solution involves the use of video cameras along with at least one guard to view as much of the facility as can be reasonably covered by cameras. It is always best to deter, rather than to catch criminals. Deterrence will only occur when a guard is present to scare off the thief or vandal.

In large sites, it is best to employ at least two guards with a means of communicating, so that while one or more guards are patrolling, they can be in touch by radio or cell phones with another who is monitoring the video cameras. This system can work during the day and at night. Covert cameras can be used where employee theft is involved, so the thief believes he (or she) is in a less protected area, but will actually be recorded.

Barry Levine Founder & CEO
Sperry West A 30 year old manufacturer of covert video security cameras, body worn cameras, body temperature warning & facial recognition cameras.

Mr. Levine has served on the board of directors of the NYC Police Reserve Association, was president of two ASIS chapters and has held many volunteer positions supporting people in our military.

[email protected].

Can covert cameras improve security?


Covert (disguised) cameras are most often used as a means of recording criminal activity in business locations as well as in residences.  Most often, covert video cameras are installed after crimes are noticed, but what about using covert cameras as a part of a routine video camera installation?  Thieves, vandals & other criminals often look for cameras before selecting their target.  This is why it is important to anticipate probable target areas for crime and to have hidden cameras as part of a video security system.
One company in San Diego CA, installed several covert cameras to view areas of valuable merchandise.
When a manager noticed that several small items were missing, he told his boss.  The company’s security manager reviewed the recent recordings from that area and discovered the thief.  It was a security guard, hired to protect the building at night.  When confronted with the video evidence, she admitted to the crime and even mentioned that she wondered if that PIR (passive infrared detector) alarm device could be a camera.  But she decided to take the risk, because she needed the money!
Modern covert cameras can be very sophisticated, some will record right inside of the disguised camera.  They are often motion sensing and will only record when the camera “sees†activity.  Some cameras are made with invisible infrared so they can record in any, or no light.  While others are actual working parts of alarm systems, but also contain concealed cameras.  As many police departments no longer respond to most minor crimes, it is incumbent upon companies, institutions and even homeowners to provide as much security as can be reasonably anticipated.
Barry Levine is the Founder & CEO of Sperry West, a Manufacturer of covert video cameras & systems.  Sperry West makes the most different kinds of covert cameras than anyone in the industry.
Levine has led Sperry West since its inception 30 years ago.  He also founded and & was President of a video integration firm and has been president of two ASIS chapters.  He frequently writes about video security & is considered to be an expert in camera systems.

Magical thieves


A world famous cosmetic company’s headquarters, had a special locked security room where they kept high value incentive prizes for their top sales producers.  The room was always kept locked and the keys were held by trusted management people. But, quantities of gifts kept “disappearingâ€.   

Covert cameras were installed inside the “special†room.  Within a week, more items were missing and several employees were identified on the video.  None of the perpetrators were issued keys, so it was important to establish how they obtained entry.  A covert camera was then installed outside the room, to see exactly who opened the door. Late one night, the video showed another intrusion.  The thieves did not possess a key, they simply removed the pins on the door hinges as they were on the outside of the door! Sperry West Video Commander Kits make it easy to set up surveillance & succeed.  See them on our website. 

New from Sperry West————Spyder Doorbell.  Two models available, 760 resolution and 1080 resolution, both with 5 year warranty.  These units transmit to smart phones, using free Apps and Include inside “bell†(chime).  No wiring needed, rechargeable batteries included. Sets up with QR code & voice prompts.

 

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of
Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance
kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40
years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or
[email protected].

Orwell’s 1984 & Today (Are We There Yet?)



By Barry Levine, Founder & CEO of Sperry West®.

An extremely imaginative George Orwell, published his famous book, 1984, in England in 1949 and it remains a classic to this day.

The societal theme of the book was probably patterned from Stalin
era Russia and brought to the extreme. The only video cameras at the time of Orwell’s writing, were giant studio types. It’s unlikely that Orwell would have envisioned today’s use of cameras, between home, business, government and institutions, as well as personal cameras (cell phones), carried by most of us.
What has this proliferation of video cameras accomplished? Video cameras have become extremely important in solving serious crimes, as the perpetrators often do not realize that they are being recorded on many cameras. Crimes are often committed by addicted drug users, who will simply do what they need to do to pay for the next “fix”.

 

They rarely care if cameras are present. Others will pick the spots in which no cameras are seen. Covert cameras are successful in catching many crimes, as the cameras are usually unseen. Doorbell cameras record someone walking up to a door, even before that person may, or may not, push the door bell button. These cameras can send an immediate picture to a programmed cell phone. The new Sperry West Spyder doorbells can do all of that, even in high resolution.

 

We are ready to assist you with planning for covert video to catch persistent crimes. Just ask us.

 

Thank you for reading.

 

Barry Levine Founder & CEO Sperry West®

 

More perpetrators have been caught & recorded with Sperry West® covert cameras in the U.S. & Canada than any other brand.

 

Sperry West® is a SDVOSB and holder GSA multi-award contract.

 

Feel free to reach Barry at 858-505-1030 or just drop a line.

 

Please see our Video Commander® covert surveillance kits and our cameras on sperrywest.com or call us at 858 505 1030

 

Thank you for taking the time to get to know us better, we appreciate it.

 

Learn more About Covert Cameras

CATCH CRIMINALS FAST


Typically, a problem occurs, such as theft, illegal entry, harassment, or vandalism and when it happens again, one or more covert cameras are employed to record a perpetrator. Often it works, but it may take time as well as even the relocation of covert cameras.

Most employee thieves know exactly where overt, normal cameras are and will avoid those areas when planning crimes. But what if hidden cameras are permanently installed, along with normal video cameras? Why wait until crimes occur, when many vulnerable areas are already known.

If covert cameras are installed, mixed with regular cameras in non-private areas, when a theft or other crime occurs, most likely the criminal has already been recorded and solid evidence has been obtained. This method can save thousands of dollars, as well as
bringing quick results.

Adding a few covert cameras, along with video systems, will increase the overall value of your video investment using this novel and smart approach. Recording may be best with a separate NVR, DVR or even SD-DVR.

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of
Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance
kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40
years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or
[email protected].
“Normal video camera”


Sperry West covert camera”

Harassment & Covert Video


You learn of an employee or a vendor, claiming harassment by another
employee, in your organization. What can you do? So far, it is just
one persons word and perhaps a witness, if you are lucky. Harassment
of course, is often unwanted sexual advances or attempts at
intimidation. It can take many forms, including “requests†for
payments or favors, acting unprofessionally, or saying cruel things to a
fellow employee.

Most often, the perpetrator repeats and increases the activity.
Rarely does such a person stop with a simple “noâ€. Generally the
harasser is careful to avoid witnesses and even security cameras.
Implementing one or more covert cameras and recording the activity, may
be enough to enable you to charge the perpetrator. Sometimes, audio,
along with the video, is needed for evidence. Today, due to the proliferation
of audio within many IP cameras, the rules on the use of audio
have relaxed, but you should clear it with your attorney.

If the reported incidents occur within a private office, you must have
the permission of the normal and approved occupant of that office,
including for the use of audio. It is most important to test the
viewing area of the camera or cameras and test to make sure the audio
is clear at the distance involved, in normal speaking volume. This
may require an amplified microphone. Recording can take place in
adjacent areas or directly within the cameras.

 

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of
Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance
kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40
years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or
[email protected].

Is it best to deter crime or to catch a criminal?


Alarms, CCTV & Access Control, are three of the most popular systems used to deter crime and even occasionally to assist in capturing crime.  Along with several other devices, they can be very helpful, particularly as aids to situational awareness. If you are utilizing these technologies, why should you also consider being prepared to employ covert video cameras and systems?

Inevitably, crimes will occur, despite all efforts at deterrence.  The most costly and often damaging of crimes may be committed by employees of the facility.  Reason (excuses) are varied, but often the perpetrators have rationalizations that they believe gives them real reason to commit theft, vandalisim, harassment or other crime.  The use of covert video can very often lead to recording the actual crime and even conviction in court, when necessary. 

Being prepared and ready to set up a covert surveillance quickly when needed is an important key in clearing cases promptly.  Complete surveillance kits like Sperry Wests “Video Commander Kit†is one of the most trusted, reasonable and successful “tools†to have ready to set up, catch the criminal, take down and be ready for the next set up as needed.  These kits provide huge benefits, often paying for themselves with the first use. The ROI is exceptional. It also beneficial that your security department is able to show real positive results.

 

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of
Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance
kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40
years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or
[email protected].

Don’t use covert cameras unless——


We all know that covert cameras and systems can help catch criminals, but with what results? If you plan to use covert technology, are you prepared for the consequences of your success? That’s right, “success†not failure.

What if you record a crime taking place and recognize the perpetrator? What next? What policy does your organization have for dealing with such evidence?

A large multi branch bank’s Security Director once told me of his frustration that anytime his team caught a Vice President committing a crime, the bank would refuse to prosecute. Sometimes, they would do nothing at all.

Lets say that you hope to get restitution from employee thieves, which is common for some businesses and institutions. They accept the return of stolen merchandise and the resignation, or firing, of the employee who signs a confession and agrees to the arrangement. So far so good. But if your facility has a record of not prosecuting criminal employees or others, why would they agree to confess and return merchandise and lose their job?

It is obviously worth having a policy in place and following it, or setting up covert surveillance may not be worth the time and expense. Covert video is often the most cost effective and quickest way to aid in catching persistent criminal activity and a way to prove more value for your department. When accomplished with a specific purpose and follow up goal, it becomes a great winner.

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of
Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance
kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40
years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or
[email protected].

Linkedin: Six dollar cameras, really!


We have just been offered 2MP security cameras for $6.16 from a manufacturer in a country that you can guess.  Oh’ and 5MP for $9,18. This is real and I have recently seen a few others with similar prices. I guess that if Americans must pay a higher rate of duty on imports, they will simply lower the cost.  I don’t know how they can even buy the case and box for six dollars. Obviously there is no bottom. 

Are we going to take advantage of their offer?  Not a chance. We are concerned with the results that our customers need.  We pay many times that amount just to have our special circuit boards made to our requirements, so that we can always make superior covert cameras and covert surveillance kits.

When you need to set up a covert video surveillance, it’s great to have everything you need, ready to go in one case.  Video Commander Kits make it simple & quick. Please see the most professional surveillance kits, visit sperrywest.com and check all of the great Video Commander Kits and the very handy Spyder Pin Hole kit.

Wishing you great success in 2019,

 

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of
Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance
kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40
years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or
[email protected].

Privacy, what privacy? or Privacy with covert video?


While I have testified before a senate subcommittee about privacy, I really do not consider myself to be an expert. This is a subject often best left to competent attorneys. There are however, some basic rules regarding privacy and the use of covert cameras.

1. Respect anticipated privacy. You have been asked to put a covert camera into an office. What do you do? You need to assume that the occupant of that office can close the door and then expects privacy. You, or the company you are working with, must get the approval of the person who occupies that office. Most of the time, that person is happy about it because they are the victim of past crimes. If the “office†is a general office where many people work or visit that particular place, privacy is generally not expected and concealed cameras should not be a problem.

2. A woman called us and asked what kind of camera might be best suited to her daughters bedroom. She explained that she suspected her daughter may be using illegal drugs. What would you do? It was explained to her, that it would be an invasion of her daughters privacy. So, while we sympathize with her dilemma, she would be wrong in using cameras as a method to uncover the truth.

Obviously, bathrooms can never have cameras, even just at the sink area. In business locations, sometimes covert or overt cameras are needed and are installed just outside of bathrooms.

While we seem to have little privacy today, we need to carefully consider any privacy issues, before using covert cameras and systems.

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of
Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance
kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40
years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or
[email protected].

How To Really Mess Up A Covert Video Surveillance


How to really mess up a covert video surveillance – #2 Now that you have selected the best camera for the surveillance, you need to position the camera for the best view. It is not always easy to find an ideal camera location for a disguised camera, so many times a compromise is needed.

Almost all covert cameras are supplied with 3.6 or 3.7mm lenses, which are considered to provide a wide angle picture. In reality we could call it a “mild wide angleâ€. You want to get as far back from the main subject as possible, so that you can get most of the room in the picture, right? Wrong.

One of the most common mistakes is to try and get everything in one picture. This will lead to a very small part of the picture showing the actual activity that is required for good evidence of a crime. Recognition of people and merchandise may be essential evidence and you need to consider this in placing the camera, rather than going for too much area. Try to concentrate the view on just what will be needed, based upon suspected past occurrences.

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of
Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance
kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40
years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or
[email protected].

Why Old Cameras May Not Be Good For Surveillance


You just learned about a series of thefts and need to quickly arrange for a covert video surveillance. You don’t have time to go “shoppingâ€, so you agree to let your team use whatever camera they can find that will not be seen by perpetrators.

More thefts in the same area occur and you play back the video only to realize that you do not have good evidence. Why? Most older cameras have degraded from their original specifications, which were barely okay years ago. Today’s cameras have much higher resolution and better low light ability, so using an old one may no longer be prudent

Old cameras may experience problems that are not noticed with a quick test. Consider being prepared for possible needs, just like many other security items that you keep available.

 

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of
Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance
kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40
years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or
[email protected].

Are we stupid?


Many things have become over complicated, where we may wonder if it is the product or is it us, who can’t seem to make it work.  Video security cameras were easy for most people to hook up and use. Not so easy for many of them today. What happened? TVI happened as well as CVI, AHD, POE and enough acronyms to confuse anyone.

Even worse is the fact that most of these initials are not compatible with other initials!  All of these have complicated what was once easy. This affects every camera security system today, sometimes even the covert ones.  Sperry West makes cameras in all of these and other formats to fit with what our customers need. Plain old NTSC format with BNC connectors is still in wide use as the resolution has vastly improved in recent time.

Setting up a covert surveillance can be made quicker and easier using our Video Commander Kits, which are designed for many uses, but always simplicity.  Please see www.sperrywest.com covert cameras and Video Commander Kits.  Our techs can assist you in choosing the right equipment for your need.  Thank you,

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of
Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance
kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40
years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or
[email protected].

Covert Video Is Different – Plus 8 important suggestions

 

 

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of
Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance
kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40
years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or
[email protected]

By Barry Levine

Crimes connected with government, business or institutional
facilities can be difficult to solve, as they are often committed by
people who are familiar with the facility and who are reasonably
knowledgeable about the preventative systems in place.

We know that video cameras often deter crime, but coverage rarely
is sufficient to prevent insiders from knowing where it is unlikely
that they will be caught committing crimes.

Theft and vandalism are frequent problems in most large
organizations. This and other criminal activity can often quickly
be solved through the use of covert video.

Covert cameras placed in areas where it is known that crimes have
occurred, often catch the perpetrator within one or two weeks.

Covert must be separated from the “normal†camera systems, as
most security departments do not have a “need to knowâ€.
Sometimes a security person is the cause of the problem. It does
not matter whether the existing video system is IP or analog, covert
is different and generally should not be made  part of
“protective†systems.

A covert kit, specifically designed for quick deployment and ease of use, is the best way for any business, hospital or institution to be prepared to act as soon as any illegal activity is uncovered. Kits such as Sperry West’s “Video Commander†are equipped with several covert wireless cameras and record to a DVR inside of a closed case. The case can be several hundred feet away in another room.

Examples of actual crimes solved with this covert surveillance kit include: A pharmacist in a hospital, stealing pain medication and replacing it with lactose. An aerospace manufacturer consistently losing copper caught the government inspector stealing the copper.

An insurance company was sure about who was stealing petty cash and small items. The thefts were first noticed right after a new person was hired. Surveillance was set up and recorded someone else stealing. The surveillance actually saved the new employee who had done nothing wrong.

A national security company was asked by a client to set up a “sting†with a covert surveillance, as they were regularly hearing complaints of petty theft. The results recorded thefts by a guard employed by that same security company.

A large government contractor recorded an employee accessing a locked and secure file cabinet and stealing proprietary information.

Many retail organizations regularly catch employees stealing and are finding that the employee theft problem is even larger then shoplifting.

What experienced security directors and investigators know is that they must be prepared to deploy covert surveillance quickly and that it has no relation to their other video systems.

A few suggestions:

  1. “Need to know†applies to covert more than other systems. Most people love to share “secretsâ€, as it feeds their ego. This can destroy the effectiveness of your surveillance.
  2. When setting up surveillance, think like the person or people you expect to catch. What will they do, what will they see and what camera location will achieve the best evidence?
  3. Check the DVR program with each surveillance to be certain of recording at the highest quality possible. If a long time surveillance occurs, check periodically to make sure the hard drive has sufficient recording time available.
  4. Be certain to use reasonably high resolution cameras which will allow for a clear image(s), as well as the specific act you are recording.
  5. Test carefully. Actually simulate the occurrence you expect, record it and playback to be certain you have achieved results that will provide clear and sufficient evidence.
  6. The most common mistake is to try to include too much in one picture. When setting up the camera, it is important to recognize faces and details; a wide angle in a very large area may look nice but will rarely produce sufficient recognition of an individual.
  7. Most often, you cannot control the lighting in your surveillance area but careful camera placement can help with identification. Try to place the camera where it is not looking directly at the light, so the light should fall between your subject and the camera specifically, not behind the subject.
  8. While covert video systems are generally legal, it is against federal law to include audio within covert cameras (public law enforcement is an exception). Consult with your legal department or legal counselor. An excellent rule to follow is that if there would be an expectation of privacy by individuals normally permitted to be in a specific area then cameras would violate that expectation of privacy and therefore not be legal, unless permission is given by the person or persons normally working in that area.

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of
Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance
kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40
years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or
[email protected].

 

Are You An Expert?

 

 

 

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40 years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or [email protected]

By Barry Levine

A friend once asked if I wouldn’t mind evaluating the specifics of a proposed security solution at a local nonprofit children’s shelter. “Barry, as an expert in video security, we would appreciate it if you can help us,†he inquired. As the story goes, funding for a video security system was approved by the Lions Club. They wanted to be certain the prospective installer’s price was fair and reasonable, and that the equipment selected as well as camera placements, were right for their purpose.

I set up an appointment and arrived trying to look the expert part. It was a tough act, though, because on a summer day in San Diego a suit and tie would be out of place. At least I have a gray beard to help with the sage and intellectual look.

… But Can You Walk the Walk?

Present at the meeting was a Lions Club board member, the shelter’s director and the owner of the alarm/CCTV installation company. I was introduced as “the expert†who had been asked to help them. This makes for an awkward enough situation. But when Roy, the owner of the alarm company, heard my introduction, he did something that has never happened to me before. He immediately asked, “What makes you an expert?†Wow! Experts are often paid big fees. I was free, so advice from me must not be very valuable. I didn’t have to fly in for the meeting and no limo was waiting to transport me. Maybe I needed the suit and tie to help fool this guy! Of course, I answered the question and appeared to satisfy him, and make the others smile comfortably. When I proclaimed Roy’s plans and price to be fair and effective (with minor adjustments), I’m sure he was happier about the “expert†they called in.

The $64,000 Question

I have been referred to as an expert many times, but am I really? What does make an expert? Does more than 40 years devoted to leading video surveillance companies count? Certainly I have learned quite a lot along the way, but I have also learned how much I don’t know. It is nice to know about old cameras with various size vidicon, plumicon, silicon and nuvicon tubes. Good to remember, not just time-lapse tape, but reel-to-reel recorders.

All of that knowledge is what we so-called “long-time industry experts†talk about in the bar after tradeshow hours. I even remember two-foot-long cameras with lens turrets. That really gives me bar bragging rights. Today’s experts speak of pixels, kbps speed, frame rate and their effects on resolution. WDR, OSD, DVR, NVR, MPEG, JPEG, H.264, and enough acronyms to sound like the government. Frankly, I have listened to some consultants who are considered experts mostly on the basis of one or more books they have authored. Many are not particularly knowledgeable despite doing some research and writing. The real experts I have known started their careers as technicians or electronic engineers who first studied electronics, then video, and constantly gained education as engineering techs.

Unfortunately, most of these folks have little experience in system design. Those who do are closer to being real experts. Experts at what? Technical and design, that is often what we mean, but are they also experts at running a business? Some probably become just that. So it seems we can define expert more by the specifics of what area their vast knowledge is derived.

Perhaps Roy has been in the alarm and video business long enough, and attained enough knowledge and kept up on the latest trends and equipment that he is now an “expert.†I think I will start the college of “Genuine Certified Expert†and issue GCEs — for a fee, of course.

Having authored this article I feel like an expert, at least until I come home and my wife asks me to throw out the garbage … just another area of my vast expertise and long-time experience.

Barry Levine is CEO of San Diego-based Sperry West, maker of Spyder® video cameras and Video Commander® surveillance kits. Levine has been leading video security companies for 40 years. He can be contacted at (858) 551-2000 or [email protected].

This article was published in Security Sales & Integration Magazine.