NSS GroupCommissioner Stands By Security Cameras
The cost of operating CCTV cameras in the Northern Territory has been defended by its police commissioner, who says CCTV cameras are effective in helping to reduce crime and prosecute offenders. Police Commissioner John McRoberts acknowledged the cost of maintaining a system in the climatic conditions experienced in the Northern Territory was intense. He said each security camera installed in public areas around the Territory can cost taxpayers up to $14,000 a month. Increases in licence fees and the maintenance of fibre-optic cables were a substantial part of the cost. But the role of CCTV security systems could not be underestimated. Mr McRoberts said trained staff in the Territory’s CCTV monitoring centre were constantly monitoring the behaviour of individuals and were very good at identifying people who were misbehaving. He said when police were investigating offences the vision from the CCTV was used wherever possible.
Source: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-06-14/high-cost-of-cctv-vigilance-defended/4070532?section=nt
