Closed Circuit Cameras Deterrent Not Cure In Fight Against Crime

Since Manukau City Council installed CCTV cameras in three city locations, anti-social behaviour and criminal activity have steadily declined, particularly in the Manurewa and Hunter’s Corner areas,

However, Community Safety Planner, Helena Maxwell would like to remind residents that CCTVs are there as a deterrent to crime, not a cure. “Cameras increase the risk of detection of criminals; they will not automatically stop crime. International and our own Council research indicate that CCTV is also successful in increasing the perception of safety amongst the community,” says Ms Maxwell.

Cameras were installed at the Papatoetoe Railway Station Park and Ride facility in August 2003. In this short time successes include arrests for anti-social behaviour, breaking and entering and identification of suspicious vehicles.

If a criminal event is viewed in real time by the monitoring company, Swiftlink NZ Ltd, the Police are automatically called. Response times vary according to Police workloads and priorities.

If a criminal event is not picked up by the monitoring company as it is occurring, the CCTV can still provide valuable evidence to assist with Police enquiries.

Ms Maxwell says “It is vital that if an offence occurs in the vicinity of a CCTV camera that the public report these incidences to the Police. The public need to be aware that if they do not report that a crime has occurred then day-to-day footage is not searched through.”

The Police are responsible for following up all reports of criminal activity and when investigating crimes, have access to Manukau City Council’s CCTV footage.

“While CCTV cameras are a wonderful tool in the fight against illegal activities in Manukau, the public and the Police must continue to work together to prevent crime and build safer communities,” says Ms Maxwell.

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