Most CCTV too poor to fight crime

Published on 30 Oct 2007

Most of the estimated 4m CCTV cameras used in the U.K. produce images that are too poor to help identify criminals or are not positioned effectively, reports the Guardian.

A joint report from the Home Office and the Association of Chief Police officers (ACPO) highlights a series of problems facing the Criminal Justice System when it comes to using CCTV evidence including: difficulty in processing digital CCTV footage because of the range of systems used, poor picture quality and ineffective positioning.

The report cites anecdotal evidence that as much as 80% of CCTV footage supplied to police is ineffective as evidence due to poor picture quality. It also points out that crime hotspots have moved since many cameras were installed in the 1990's and the switch from VHS to digital CCTV has resulted in a plethora of formats requiring special techniques to decode.

The report also highlights the lack of statutory requirements when it comes to installing CCTV. Currently anyone can set up a CCTV system as long as they act in accordance with the Data Protection Act.

Amongst the recommendations set out by the report were:

  • Standardising CCTV formats for police use
  • A full review of the positioning of CCTV systems
  • Generating a 'map' of CCTV coverage across the UK

There were also recommendations to increase the Information Commissioners' powers to enforce CCTV licensing and to carry out inspections of existing CCTV systems to ensure they are functioning effectively.

The British Security Industry Authority (BSIA) has welcomed the strategy. Pauline Norstrom, BSIA CCTV Section Chairman, said:

"The plans laid down by the strategy will bring major benefits to public safety and lead to the effective reduction of crime. CCTV technology is now very much part of our everyday lives and it is essential that its potential is maximised for the benefit of all."

The report can be downloaded at www.www.crimereduction.homeoffice.gov.uk