The high-tech ‘scarecrows’ watching your every move — and what they’re really being used for
In today’s world of advanced security technology, surveillance tools are becoming more mobile and visible than ever before. One type of system, in particular, is showing up in places where people normally wouldn’t expect cameras — and its use goes beyond simply recording empty streets or parking lots.
Known as Cameras on Wheels, or COWs, these solar-powered surveillance units are being deployed at business parking lots, construction sites, car dealerships, public events, and even neighborhoods recovering from wildfire damage. Each COW is outfitted with high-definition Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras and license plate recognition, according to Nile Coates, vice president of US sales for ECAM, the Texas company that manufactures the devices, who spoke with KTLA about the technology.
The towers are hard to miss. Standing as tall, white poles with bright blue lights at the top, they are designed to discourage crime. Logan Harris, CEO of Spotter Global, a military surveillance contractor, told KTLA that the devices are often called “the farm’s bodyguard” because of their intimidating presence. “They have bright flashing lights on them, cameras, and they look kind of scary,” Harris said.
While deterring criminal activity is a primary goal, the COWs offer more than just a visual warning. Coates explained to KTLA that if suspicious activity is detected, the monitoring team can notify local security personnel or law enforcement immediately. This combination of visibility and rapid response has already led to results, including stopping a copper wire theft ring and catching mall shoplifters.
Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Commander Eric Tennessen told KTLA that COWs were also deployed after the 2024 Mountain Fire to give residents a sense of security, reassuring those still living in the affected areas that extra surveillance was in place.
Some COW units also include gunshot detection sensors, which can help authorities pinpoint the location of shootings. Clovis Police began using a COW vehicle last year, KSFN Fresno reported. This multi-camera mobile unit can be stationed in high-traffic areas, at community events, or in neighborhoods experiencing a spike in criminal activity — all without a human operator on-site.
Whether standing tall in a parking lot or patrolling a busy street, these mobile towers are a constant presence, silently watching and ready to alert authorities when needed.
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