[12
FEB 99] STRATFORD ON AVON DISTRICT COUNCIL PRESS RELEASE
Caught In The ActClosed circuit television
(CCTV) cameras are being hailed a success in two Warwickshire communities, after helping
to catch over 250 crooks in the last year. Stratford-upon-Avon and Studley both have CCTV
systems monitored 24 hours a day by Stratford District Council.
Latest figures for 1998 show that the CCTV system had
identified 366 incidents which required the police, a 70% increase on the 1997 total.
As a result of these incidents over 250 individuals were
arrested by the police, which represents an increase in arrests of 66% when compared to
the 1997 total.
"This clearly demonstrates the value of CCTV in
helping to detect crime," said Cllr Geoff Freeman, Stratford District Council's
Chairman of Community Services.
"The District Council recognises the importance of its
involvement in community safety, which is why we helped fund these two CCTV schemes and
why we are partners with the county council and police in the recently announced crime and
disorder audit.
"CCTV forms an integral part of that audit, as one of
the aims is to reduce the fear of crime. I believe these latest figures speak for
themselves as they show that CCTV really works and helps communities feel more secure.
"Local businesses also play a vital role in helping to
support the running of CCTV, and I urge them to please continue to do so."
The schemes' original set up costs of £430,000 were funded
by the District Council, Stratford Town and Studley Parish Councils, local businesses and
£102,000 from the Home Office. On-going annual running costs of around £80,000 are met
by the District Council, with local businesses contributing about £9,000.
MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Mark Lepkowski, press officer on 01789 260104
or
Paul Ogden, amenity services manager on 01789 260611
e-mail: paul.ogden@stratford-dc.gov.uk
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