CCTV
Latest Developments
Mid Beds has two overt mobile kits and two covert mobile kits.
Covert: Discreet systems that can be installed, either in or outside. Are very discreet and are linked up to 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 two 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!
In Mid Beds the system covers the towns of Biggleswade, Sandy and Shefford. The system gives extensive coverage in the first two towns with a lesser, but mobile, coverage in Shefford.
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 room has full recording capability.
The control room is situated in Stevenage and is 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.
In the near future it is intended to introduce a Retail Radio link in Biggleswade and Sandy. This will cover any retail or commercial business, as well as pubs who choose to join. The link will mean that businesses can talk to each other, or the CCTV control room as necessary. All members of the scheme will be 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 vandalisim and anti-social behaviour.
Members of the public cannot have direct access to the control room, however if the police are involved, the officer in the case (OIC) 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.
Additional information can be obtained from Dave Rollings, the Community Safety Officer at Mid Beds on 01462 611225, or email him via David Rollings.
