The City of Cockburn’s expansive CCTV network is being monitored by local police stations, following the donation of two laptops by the City.
Police officers at Cockburn and Murdoch police stations now have access to all CCTV cameras within public areas of the City - more than two thirds of the current network of about 500 cameras.
Police will then be able to request use of any footage, via the laptops, from the City.
"The City has one of the largest community safety CCTV networks within WA," Rangers and Community Safety Manager Mike Emery said.
“The growth of the network has led to a number of enquiries from WA Police on possible captured footage of criminal acts.
“As the network grows, the City wants to ensure the cameras being installed are useful for the police and that they are able to access the system.
“The City, just like the WA Police, has strong data security policies so for this reason it was a mutual decision for the City to supply the laptops.”
Police officers would also be able to access the City’s mobile Rapid Deployable Cameras located in hotspot areas, and will use the CCTV network access for reactive investigations or during events and peak periods.
Cockburn Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Noel Minnock thanked the City for the technology.
“It will definitely enhance our capability being able to have direct access to a live feed,” Sen. Sgt Minnock said.
The initiative cost $5,000 and was funded by the City through its municipal budget.