CCTV system secures 1,685 arrests

More than 1,600 people have been arrested in the past five years as a result of a town centre CCTV operation.

Since its launch in May 1999, Oxford's CCTV system has helped secure the arrest of 1,685 people.

It has also helped to trace 55 people reported as missing in the area, including children and those deemed by the social services to be 'at risk'.

The system has a total number of 34 cameras and covers the whole of Oxford City Centre.

Crime prevention

CCTV manager Chris Hart said: "This scheme is not just about catching criminals, it is about increasing public safety and reassurance.

"For example, if we see a lone female, walking late at night, we would keep an eye on her to make sure she was safe.

"There have been numerous times when we have intervened to prevent potential crimes, such as indecent assault, from taking place after our suspicions have been aroused.

"It is not just about convictions, it is about prevention and the welfare of our citizens and visitors to the city."