CCTV - releasing for evidence
Central Bedfordshire has extensive CCTV coverage in a number of its Towns in order to monitor public open spaces.
Our CCTV is only used as a proportional response to identified problems and only in so far as it is necessary in a democratic society, in the interests of national security, public safety, the economic well being of the area, for the prevention and detection of crime or disorder, or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others.
Most of the cameras have pan, tilt and zoom colour capability. They have an automatic "patrol" mode and can be controlled manually by an operator. They are monitored 24/7 and the control rooms have full recording capability.
The control rooms are situated locally and are directly linked to Bedfordshire Police HQ, thus being able to send pictures and speak directly to the police. The operators respond to incidents as they see them by notifying the police or by responding to police requests. They also prepare tapes for evidence and court use.
A number of retail radio schemes are also in place that cover many retail and commercial business, as well as pubs who can choose to join. Theses schemes mean that businesses can talk to each other, or the CCTV control rooms as necessary. All members of the scheme are able to sign up and receive an offenders photo sheet. The concept of the scheme is to allow authorised members an opportunity to be able to recognise possible offenders. They can then either prevent them from entering their business or warn others of their location.
An effective CCTV system with an efficient radio link has proved to be a very successful method to deter and reduce vandalism and anti-social behaviour.
Members of the public cannot have direct access to the control rooms, however if the police are involved, the officer in the case will approach the control and obtain the necessary evidence.
If a crime has not been reported, contact has to be via a solicitor. These regulations are controlled by the Data Protection Act and Human Rights Act.
If a member of the public needs to contact the police, the general number is 01234 841212, or if they suspect a crime is taking place then ring 999.
Central Bedfordshire also uses mobile CCTV in two ways, overt mobile kits and covert mobile kits.
Covert: Discreet systems that can be installed, either in or outside. Are very discreet and are linked up to a laptop completely off site. They can be used to monitor, for example, sites where fly tipping is occurring, or damage is being caused. All usage is considered from a legal aspect which includes Data Protection, Human Rights and the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act.
Overt: These cameras are mountable on lamp posts and give very good coverage of public areas. Again they can be used to detect criminal damage, anti-social behaviour and similar offences. These can be monitored on sight via Bluetooth or offsite via 3G connection. As above all legal aspects are considered, however signs must be displayed!