CCTV Cameras in Taxis Significantly Reduce Crime

Story link: CCTV Cameras in Taxis Significantly Reduce Crime by Jan Harris

A Sheffield-based pilot scheme to fit CCTV cameras inside taxis has been a resounding success.

Cameras were installed in 33 cabs in December, as part of a £7,000 trial funded by Sheffield City Council. The cameras can be controlled by cab drivers via a button on the dashboard.

The scheme has led to a substantial reduction in abuse and attacks against drivers - prior to the scheme there was an average of one incident for every seven fares, this has been reduced to one incident in every 100 fares.

The Council is now planning a trade fair to bring equipment suppliers and taxi drivers together to try and encourage drivers to install CCTV systems in their cabs.

Although drivers will have to pay for the equipment, if they are classed as self-employed they should be able to claim the costs back.

Passengers have also benefited from the scheme, with some commenting that the cameras made them feel safer.