(PLTM) - The installed closed circuit television cameras (CCTV) around the Territory have proven to be successful in helping police to apprehend criminals.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force in its 2015 annual report, which was released last month, stated that the business support has been instrumental in procuring and developing the CCTV system. The system, the force said, is proving to be very effective in the investigation of crime and the prosecution of offenders.
"In the past year, CCTV evidence has been used in more than 60 cases, has been a direct aid to investigating more than 35 times, and has directly led to at least 7 persons being charged or prosecuted," the report stated.
In 2015, reported crime continued to fall by 22 percent since 2011, with almost 400 fewer offenses.
"Our performance target to reduce reported crime by another 5 percent between 2014 and 2015 was not only met, but exceeded, resulting in a 14 percent [reduction] in 2015 compared with 2014."
Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. Alwin James said that officers did this despite continuing challenges and significant financial restrictions.
He said notwithstanding the continued reduction in the numbers of deployable officers, consequent to natural attrition exceeding recruitment levels, the officers and staff of the force have worked hard to maintain the VI as one of the safest territories in the Caribbean.
However, during the later part of 2016, gun crimes, including robberies, saw a sudden increase.
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