THE EDITOR, Sir:
It is commendable of Dr. Peter Phillips, Minister of National Security, to be actively considering implementing the installation of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) in an attempt to assist with deterring crime.
As it is well known, CCTV is a part of life in the first world countries such as USA, UK and Canada. In the USA we just had the case of actress Wyonna Ryder and the evidence produced in court as recorded by the store's CCTV. In the UK police were able to trace - with the use of CCTV - the movements of two missing schoolgirls, Holly and Jessica who vanished shortly after leaving their home to go shopping. There are numerous other instances where CCTV has been used.
In the UK a change in the law requires that all CCTV surveillance system must be registered under the Data Protection Act (1998). The Act covers a range of responsibilities including positioning of cameras, signage, correct tape storage and many other important issues relating to the images being held. Failure to comply with the Act can result in legal action and also affect the ability of the police to use CCTV images in a criminal investigation.
There is no statistical evidence, however, to show that the use of CCTV helps to reduce the level of crime in any country. In the UK for example, drug dealers still continue their trade under "the nose" of the cameras and often the recorded images are so poor that when they are released by the police the suspects cannot be identified.
In the Jamaican situation a central control centre would be required where the police could constantly monitor the cameras. It is essential also that there is proper, reliable communication channels between the control centre and the officers on beat patrol as the control centre would act as the eyes of the operation. There would be a need for police helicopters to give an aerial view of the area involved and assist with tracking down criminals if a chase takes place.
Another important issue is the one having to do with the fact that not all householders are owners of a television set and thus broadcast images might not be reaching the intended audience. The same analysis could be used for posting of these images on a police web site - as is done in the USA by the FBI - as computers and Internet connect are so expensive in Jamaica coupled with the fact that so few people are computer literate.
All of this would make it increasingly difficult for the law enforcers. In essence therefore, there is still a long road to travel but Dr Phillips can take consolation in the fact that all long journeys start with the first single step.
I am, etc.
DURRANT THOMPSON
Crashog@yahoo.com
London
Via Go-Jamaica
