THE EFFICACY OF CLOSE CIRCUIT TELEVISION CAMERA FOOTAGE IN PREVENTING CRIME IN BARANGAY STA. LUCIA NOVALICHES QUEZON CITY

Abstract

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) is a closed system consisting of data networks, monitors, and video cameras. Its effectiveness in preventing crime in Barangay Sta. Lucia, Novaliches, Quezon City is due to its deterrence effect, aiding in investigations, and enhancing public safety. The effectiveness of CCTV depends on the community's crime rate, existing security measures, historical crime trends, residents' perceptions of security, and the need for advanced surveillance tools. Understanding these factors helps evaluate its effectiveness in reducing criminal activities. This research utilized a descriptive research design using a qualitative approach and also employed a simple random sampling technique to purposely select the 15 selected Barangay officials and 85 citizens of Barangay Sta. Lucia, Novaliches, Quezon City, to participate in this study. The instrument used in this research is a survey questionnaire, which will be distributed personally by the researchers. From the results of this study, it reveals that the efficacy of closed-circuit television camera footage in preventing crime in Barangay Sta. Lucia, Novaliches, Quezon City, in terms of modus operandi, identification of suspects, and information dissemination is strongly agreed upon. The problems encountered were the issues netizens experience with CCTV, such as reflections from objects close to the camera that can bounce light back to the security camera lens, insufficient coverage area of CCTV cameras to monitor potential crime hotspots, blurry images captured at night, interference caused by the meeting of two appliances or electronics that can cause buzzing or static in the audio, and improper installation of CCTV cameras without considering weather conditions. There are measures to address these problems with CCTV. The researchers suggest providing more suitable programs, such as conducting seminars regarding closed-circuit television camera footage and its specifications, which will help citizens become more aware of CCTV cameras to avoid becoming victims of any kind of modus operandi. Furthermore, the researchers suggest that the Barangay Captain should prioritize the installation of CCTV cameras in crime-prone areas, such as public places and establishments, to gain the full potential of CCTV. They also recommend that future researchers conduct similar studies in different settings and approaches, focusing on other solutions that help promote the safety of citizens.