Mobile CCTV Van in action in Torbay

As part of the Criminal Justice System’s ‘Community Cashback’ scheme, which gives local people a say in how moneys recovered from criminal assets (for example; confiscated cash or property) should be spent in their communities, local residents voted for a mobile CCTV van for the bay to act as an extra resource in the fight against anti-social behaviour (ASB).

A local resident from Paignton was instrumental in securing the funding and with the support of Safer Communities Torbay, who agreed to match the moneys, the Home office allocated £10,000 to provide Torbay with a mobile CCTV van.

The police-branded vehicle was acquired back in January and has since been undergoing a complete refit with state of the art recording equipment. The system is so high-tech and the images provided of such clarity that that the images will be permissible in court as evidence.

Officially in operation as of today, Wednesday 14^th of July, the van will be used to monitor areas where anti-social behaviour has been reported to be a problem.

Partnership Inspector, Glen Mayhew added;

“We are very excited about the potential of the van. It is going to be a valuable asset for Torbay policing and in turn for our communities. It will be like having an extra pair of eyes out on the beat. A lot of anti-social behaviour is committed by opportunists who think they can get away with being a nuisance. The beauty of the van is that we can move it around over the course of the day and target known hotspots. The perpetrators will not be able to expect it.”

Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Engagement, Louisa Aiton comments;

“Fear of crime can have a debilitating effect on our communities, preventing us from enjoying the facilities on offer to their fullest. The presence of the vehicle will not only act as a deterrent but will also be a reassuring presence for residents. It is an amazing piece of equipment, I am confident that it will make an enormous difference in the communities where it is to be deployed

To help us target the right areas please report any anti-social behaviour to the ASB Hotline on 01803 207900 or email asb@torbay.gov.uk