Smart CCTV cameras will auto-detect crime

Bexley police, in association with the their local county council, have announced that they will be trialling a new form of CCTV camera that can spot crime as it happens and zoom in to record footage that can later be used in any prosecutions.

The system uses technology that has been developed by a local company Viseum UK Ltd. Chris Ball, Leader of Bexley Council and Chair of the Bexley Community Safety Partnership said: “Technology is fast-changing and it is especially useful that we have the opportunity to assess and monitor first-hand the effectiveness of this system in addressing the issues which matter to local people.”

The trial will take place in the Northumberland Heath area, where it is hoped the new system will reduce crime. “In a recent trial elsewhere in the country we have seen a high crime area quickly become a ‘no-crime’ area, with the system capturing two serious incidents including a burglary and assault,” said Stuart Thomson, Viseum’s Managing Director. “We hope to have the same great results in Bexley. Our goal is to provide solutions to improve the safety of residents and the quality of neighbourhoods by deterring those who may be responsible for crime and anti-social behaviour.”