Physical surveillance (CCTV)

Surveillance can be supported by physical systems such as CCTV, additional lighting, access management systems etc

CCTV has been widely used in surveillance.

Evaluating the effectiveness of CCTV is difficult. However, some studies report reductions in crime and the fear of crime.

CCTV may deter criminal offences (e.g. vehicle crime or burglary) due to a perceived increase in the risk of detection that may outweigh the perceived potential benefits to the criminal. However, in alcohol-related crime (such as public disorder) where 'rationality' is often relatively absent, the deterrent effect of CCTV may be nullified.

A Home Office study by Welsh and Farrington (2002) systematically reviewed the crime prevention impact of CCTV in 18 evaluations. Overall, a 5 per cent reduction in recorded crime was reported and half of the studies, (all in the UK) revealed a fall in recorded crime.

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