Avoid the �Warning CCTV' sign at your peril is the message being sent out by Wandsworth police and borough council.  Wandsworth is now home to a network of more than 700 CCTV cameras, which are playing a vital role in the fight against crime.

The CCTV control room in Frogmore is a multiplex of screens scanning the borough for criminal activity and issues of public safety.  Staffed by police and council operatives, their skills are utilised for robbery and surveillance operations.  Providing officers with accurate information of crimes in progress and capturing evidence when suspects discard stolen goods or drugs.

Working together has brought significant results. In one rape case, the investigating officer was able to track the movement of the prime suspect from Putney to the Causeway.  The CCTV evidence was crucial to the conviction of David Wood, 25, who received a nine-year sentence.

Joe Royle said, � Our relationship with the council is essential in combating street crime.  Technology and good communication gives my officers the initiative to keep the streets safe.�

An illegal minicab racket was disbanded when CCTV provided evidence for immigration officials, tow away trucks and police to break up the operation.

CCTV intelligence is part of a crime-fighting jigsaw that builds towards the prevention of crime and it is now the norm for investigating police officers to check for CCTV footage with the control room as a routine part of their enquiries. 

In the run-up to Christmas and late licensing coming into law, there will be an increased police presence on the streets to deal with any alcohol related incidents and keep a safe environment for the public to conduct their shopping.  Police know they can rely on their colleagues with zooming lenses to keep them one step ahead of crime.

November 17, 2005