Cardboard Crime Prevention

Cardboard Crime Prevention

Cardboard cut-outs might be a familiar sight in the cinema foyer, but we’ve recently discovered that cardboard cut outs have also been playing an important role in reducing criminal activity.

We’ve all seen programmes such as Crimewatch, where viewers are shown CCTV images, re-enactments and other visual clues in order to help with unsolved crimes. The images aim to jog the memory of people who may have seen something or know someone that could be linked to the case.

Cardboard Cut Outs

It would seem that another approach, which was first used by Staffordshire Police, is to use cardboard cut-outs of criminals. The visual reminder is created by printing security camera images of a wanted criminal onto life sized cardboard cut-outs. These can then be placed in and around the scene of the crime in order to prompt the memories of passers-by.

The first Staffordshire Police cardboard cut-out was recognised by a member of the public. It led to the successful arrest of a notorious bank robber. He was found guilty and given a 14 year prison sentence.

It seems that other forces including Somerset and Avon Police have also used cardboard cut outs as a measure in gaining public information that could help to capture criminals. Who would have thought that cardboard could play a role in fighting crime?