CCTV

The introduction of CCTV has been one of the most effective weapons against crime. It has been proved effective in both cutting and detecting crime and because of this people now feel safer when they're out and about.

The Home Office states CCTV surveillance is particularly valuable when used as part of a wider crime reduction strategy, thus strengthening partnership with the local police.

Pictures from the cameras are continuously monitored at the council's control rooms. The Police are informed of suspicious incidents as they arise and can be directed to the exact location by CCTV operators.

Types of offences that can lead to arrests include:

• Shoplifting
• Pick-pocketing
• Possession of drugs
• Assault
• Unauthorised taking of motor vehicles
• Public order offences

Truancy

Aside from the disadvantage of not attending school, youngsters can also get into serious trouble if they hang around unsupervised on the streets.

We can make use of the CCTV cameras installed in the town centres to spot truants and coordinate a response.

Littering

CCTV cameras may also be used to catch domestic and trade litterers in the act and those who refuse to pay their fines will end up in court.

• CCTV in Christchurch

  This scheme is part of a community safety initiative in partnership with Dorset Police and the Christchurch Chamber of Trade and Commerce.

• CCTV in Dorset County Council

  CCTV cameras are located throughout the county for the monitoring of traffic flow. The County Council works with partners to ensure that these cameras can also be used to prevent and detect crime. CCTV cameras are also used at specific locations such as libraries and schools.

• CCTV in West Dorset

  There are two town centre CCTV schemes in West Dorset - Bridport and Dorchester. Both schemes link to the Weymouth CCTV Scheme.