Trail cameras target rural crime hotspots in Essex

Essex Police are deploying solar-powered trail cameras funded by confiscated criminal assets across rural crime hotspots to deter offences, gather evidence and support farmers.

The Rural Engagement Team has introduced the cameras as part of Operation Around, targeting offences including hare coursing, fly-tipping and the theft of plant and machinery in remote locations.

Rural engagement officer PC Luke Jones said the cameras were designed to help identify suspects and deter criminal activity.

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“Trail cameras are relatively cheap and easy to put up and, of course, they can monitor the area day and night,” he said.

“The footage is clear, which will help us to identify suspects, vehicles and even index plates – it’s good enough to be used as evidence. But they also provide us with valuable intelligence which can help us with problem solving and appropriate crime prevention advice.”

Under Operation Around, cameras are installed based on crime pattern analysis, recent incidents and intelligence about crime hotspots. Deployments vary in length depending on the issue being addressed.

“Having identified a problem where we think the cameras will be helpful, we speak with the landowner, provide crime prevention advice and offer to put up cameras,” PC Jones said.

“Each deployment includes clear signage to meet legal requirements, making it visible that surveillance is in operation. We have found that the signs are as much of a deterrent as the cameras themselves.”

The cameras have been placed in locations including fields and woodland targeted by hare coursers and poachers, burglary locations, rural roads, and fly-tipping sites.

Farmer backing

Farmers have reported increased reassurance following deployments.

Matt Register, an arable farmer in Uttlesford, described the scheme as “fantastic”.

“We are so grateful. For us, the cameras have been so useful for security purposes, and we’ve found them to be a deterrent. They have made things better for us,” he said.

Trail cameras have so far been deployed across 11 of Essex’s 14 district council areas.