Witney News - CCTV system helps police catch offenders

CCTV system helps police catch offenders

The Witney CCTV system has again proved its worth after three men were arrested by police on Friday 7th March for trying to use forged notes in the town's shops.

Employees at Lloyds Pharmacy, which is signed up to the radio system, spotted a man trying to use a forged £20 note. The store informed the CCTV control room who were able to disseminate the man's description to other premises on the radio link up. The CCTV operator was also able to follow the man as he drove out of town in a van with two other passengers. The police stopped them and on discovering a large amount of counterfeit money, they arrested a 31-year-old man, a 19-year-old man and a 15-year-old youth.

DS Dick White, who is investigating the incident, said: “I would like to hear from anyone who received a counterfeit note in the Oxford area on Friday 7th March from a 15-year-old male. He has dark hair with a slim build and spoke with an Irish accent. One of the main items he purchased was single roses from a florist.”

“The CCTV system definitely helped us to catch these men and prevent further offences occurring. This case proves that the more retailers that are signed up to the radio system the better, as vital information is passed on and incidents can be nipped in the bud.”

Barry Norton, Leader of West Oxfordshire District Council and Chairman of the CCTV Management Group, said: “The link-up between the control room and retailers has been a great success and has helped to promote safety and peace of mind for everyone. Currently more than 40 town centre retailers and licensed premises are linked via the walkie talkie radios, but we are hoping to increase this number.”

Businesses in the town who are interested in joining the CCTV radio scheme should contact the Community Safety Partnership on 01993 801060.