NCJ Number
229821
Date Published
December 2009
Length
26 pages
Annotation
This manual was developed to assist local governments, chambers of commerce, and other Australian organizations in establishing closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems in public spaces.
Abstract
The core components of a CCTV system for the surveillance of public spaces are cameras, footage, monitoring, and governance arrangements. This manual explains how each of these components operate and interact. This is followed by descriptions of the steps recommended for installing a CCTV system in a public space. The first of seven steps involves an analysis of local crime and crime patterns. The second step consists of an analysis of the site being considered for a CCTV system installation. The next step is to decide on the objectives to be achieved by the CCTV system. Step 4, "scoping the system," consists of locating the right consultant and developing standards for the equipment and its operation. Step 5 involves accurately estimating costs and conducting a cost-benefits analysis that assumes the achievement of CCTV system objectives. Step 6 includes the installation, testing, and operation of the CCTV system. The concluding step is conducting monitoring and evaluation of the implementation and effects of the CCTV system. In addition to measuring the effects on the area directly under the surveillance of the CCTV, displacement and diffusion effects should also be measured. In conclusion, the manual advises that the outlined steps should be considered in the context of local conditions that include budgetary, political, and geographic factors as well as existing crime prevention initiatives and organizational capacity. 24 supplementary information "boxes," 18 suggestions for further reading, and 17 references