Prevention is better than cure : is CCTV effective in enhancing crime prevention in Valletta

Abstract

In the last three decades, 'Closed Circuit Television' (CCTV) surveillance has become a prevalent crime prevention tool (Fletcher, 2011). The simplest form of a CCTV system consists of a video camera connected by a coaxial cable, fibre-optic cable or through wireless links to a central television monitor (Norris, 2009; Carli, 2008; Gill & Spriggs, 2005). This research study analyses the use of CCTV within the 'Commercial Zone of Valletta' (CZV). Valletta was selected as the location to carry out this study because it is a hub of commercial activity. Formosa (2013) and Spiteri (2012) stipulate that criminal behaviour is prevalent within the CZV. Spiteri's (2012) study explores crime prevention in Valletta, and my study intends to extend Spiteri's study by focusing solely on the use and effectiveness of CCTV surveillance. This qualitative study was carried out through semi-structured interviews with shop owners and business managers as to collect in-depth data on the use and perceived effectiveness of CCTV surveillance. The data collected illustrates that business owners and managers perceive CCTV surveillance as beneficial because it produces more control over their establishment. Participants considered that CCTV surveillance needs to be accompanied by other crime prevention measures, such as: electronic article surveillance, bulletproof glass, alarm systems, security guards and police foot patrol. In addition, this study explores the relationship between CCTV surveillance and privacy issues. The study concludes by giving a set of recommendations to shop owners and business managers that may be implemented as part of their security system to improve the way they curb crime and anti-social behaviour. Also, a set of recommendations is given for further