24th April 2007, 07/130
CCTV deterrent for convicted
criminals
CCTV images of convicted criminals may now be used as a further
tool in the District Council's fight against crime.
The Council agreed at last week's Council meeting (18th April) to
start a new initiative to use photographic stills from the
District's surveillance equipment of convicted persons in a bid to
stop further criminal activities.
Already the Council's CCTV system plays a pivotal role in capturing
criminals committing offences and is helping the police to track
down and prosecute offenders for a wide range of incidents.
Now, the Council could give stills to the media to publish pictures
of convicted criminals along with details of their conviction to
send out a stronger message to prospective offenders.
The Council already releases images in the following
circumstances:
· Where it would assist the police to find a suspect
· Where public assistance was needed to assist in the
identification of a victim, witness or perpetrator (only with the
consent of the victim).
· Where this would assist in the general prevention or reduction of
crime or the fear of crime, provided that the images of individuals
could not be easily identified.
These new plans could further maximise the positive use of CCTV
pictures to combat crime and the fear of crime and will make West
Lancashire even safer for people who live, work and visit
here.
Dave Tilleray, Executive Manager Community Services, said: "The
idea behind this latest policy is to maximise the benefits of our
CCTV resources and reduce crime and the fear of crime. We hope that
it will enhance safety and security for our residents and will
increase public reassurance. We also hope that it will act as a
deterrent to perpetrators because we are watching you!"
To implement this new policy, a CCTV Images Committee has been
established. This group will have the authority to determine in
each individual case whether images should be released in
accordance with the policy. They will take into account the
seriousness of crime, relevant laws such as the Human Rights Act
1998 and Data Protection Act 1998. They will also consider factors
such as whether the publication of a still might endanger that
person or his/her family, or whether it would prejudice future
rehabilitation.
Related information
> Council
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