CCTV cameras stationed around North East Lincolnshire have supported emergency services over 500 times in a three month period.
From October to December 2024, the 147 cameras were used 555 times to support an incident, including suspected arson, numerous thefts and helping apprehend wanted individuals.
The CCTV system was introduced in 2022 as part of a £2.25 million overhaul to help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour across North East Lincolnshire. This system, along with partnership working, has helped to reduce crime by 11% in Grimsby Town centre over the previous 12 months.
Working in conjunction with the cameras, Council teams and partner organisations have also utilised the Days of Action and the Tannoy system to relay important messages to those visiting Grimsby town centre specifically. In the same period, the Tannoy was utilised 57 times to assist enforcement officers in Grimsby town centre.
Combatting criminal activity, the camera operators work in unison with emergency services to direct and advise when a crime is in progress or if they notice unusual activity.
Over this three month period, the cameras proved invaluable to the emergency services. In October, there were 215 instances when the CCTV system was utilised, 172 in November and 168 in December.
During one incident, operators spotted a pair trying to steal a motorcycle. Cameras followed them whilst Police attended the scene before they were both arrested.
In another incident, individuals were spotted setting fire to several bins, but thanks to work by the CCTV cameras, officers were directed towards them before apprehending those involved.
In the Town Centre, cameras helped with the arrest of multiple suspected shoplifters who were seen taking items from businesses in Freshney Place before fleeing the scene.
Arguably the most important use of the cameras came when they spotted an individual trying to break into a property. Again, thanks to CCTV operators directing the police to their location, the person was apprehended and arrested for a multitude of offences. A second individual also had a firearm seized when Police arrived on scene.
Councillor, Ron Shepherd, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, believes this is a step in the right direction to making the town a more safe and welcoming place. He said: “I understand that for some these incidents may come as a shock, but that is why the cameras are in place.
“We and our partners are dedicated to keeping residents safe and making sure they feel like that when going about their daily life.
“We will continue to utilise this impressive CCTV system to help apprehend those who don’t follow the law. This Council has a zero tolerance policy in regards to crime and anti-social behaviour and anyone found to be acting in such a manner will be punished accordingly.”
Humberside Police Inspector Clare Jacobs added: ‘’The CCTV operators and support team are a big part of the partnership working within Grimsby town centre. Their skills and expertise help both in detecting crime and safeguarding the community, while also supporting our officers.
“From locating wanted persons in the area to providing vital evidence in relation to ongoing incidents in the night-time economy, we’ve seen a positive impact on reducing crime and improving safety. Together, we’re working towards making the town a place where people feel safe and supported.’’
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