The latest crime data highlights the key role of CCTV in strengthening intelligence and identifying offenders. It reports a rise in robbery from business premises, and attributes this to changes and improvements in reporting.
Reported Retail Crime Falls
After retail crime smashed consecutive records, retailer organisations and police forces have increasingly worked together to tackle the issue. The latest data from ONS is testament to that, with shop lifting finally seeing a small fall (4%). While this is still over half a million offences, it’s the first drop in these figures for five years.
However the British Independent Retail Association (BIRA) carried out it’s own survey in June which painted a bleaker picture. It said that over 3/4 of independent retailers had suffered theft in the last 12 months. Of those, 90% said things had worsened, with repeat offenders and thieves becoming bolder.
But almost half of these retailers didn’t report these incidents to the police.
The importance of reporting crime
Reporting rates for shoplifting are known to be very low and police are actively encouraging the reporting of all incidents and the submission of supporting evidence, such as CCTV, to strengthen intelligence, identify offenders, and link related offences.
ONS
To help make further improvements, retailers need to report every single incident. This can be crucial in building a complete picture of the situation and capturing those responsible. It’s most effective when supported by solid evidence like CCTV footage.
CCTV is strengthening intelligence
Reporting and evidence not only helps identify offenders, but also links related crimes, creating a strong network of intelligence. Seeing offenders on CCTV can really speed up investigations and build stronger cases against repeat offenders.
How up to date is your CCTV?
Why businesses should invest in upgrading CCTV systems at their premises
CCTV has become a must-have for keeping shops safe across the UK. The latest crime stats from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlight just how important CCTV is for gathering intel and catching offenders, especially with burglaries targeting businesses.
Artificial Intelligence is strengthening CCTV
Modern CCTV systems offer high definition video and real-time monitoring. Plus, adding AI and machine learning to CCTV is shaking up crime prevention. Intelligent searching and facial recognition can spot odd patterns or behavior, as well as known offenders, giving security staff a heads-up about possible threats. Such innovations protect premises and people, and provides valuable data for the police, making shopping safer for everyone.
CCTV isn’t just for big chains; small and independent stores are seeing the benefits too. Affordable options are here, so businesses of all sizes can set up effective surveillance. Using CCTV smartly is key to a solid security plan.
Keybury Fire and Security are NSI GOLD certified for the design, installation & maintenance of CCTV systems. Speak to our team and schedule your free site survey today. Book online or get in touch on sales@keybury.co.uk or 0800 458 7486.
Wasting hours trawling CCTV footage for specifics?
Keybury Fire and Security are now installing Acuseek AI Network Video Recorders for clients, who are seeing the benefits immediately. This clever system can intelligently search for people, vehicles, items or even behaviours in your CCTV footage. It’s a game changer, especially for anyone with a large commercial premises.