The Essex Police Rural Engagement Team is using money seized from criminals to buy solar-powered trail cameras for rural communities in Colchester and across the county. The initiative, which began as a pilot in early 2025, has now scaled to provide security coverage against illegal activities such as fly-tipping and the theft of farm machinery.
The security project, known as Operation Around, is funded by cash taken from convicted criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA). By reinvesting this money, officers can provide high-tech cameras to farmers and business owners who might find traditional security systems too expensive.
PC Luke Jones, of the Rural Engagement Team, developed the concept for the project after meeting with local people at parish council meetings to discuss issues like hare coursing. The cameras are now being used in several districts, including Colchester, Braintree, and Uttlesford, to help monitor remote spots that are difficult to patrol.
Local farmer Matt Register from the Uttlesford district, who has used the cameras on his property, said the scheme acts as a major deterrent and helps people feel more secure on their land. The police hope that seeing the cameras and accompanying signage will discourage criminals from targeting isolated farms and properties across Essex.
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