Chatham-Kent Police Service officials allege: The Chatham-Kent Police Service is highlighting the value of CCTV technology after a vulnerable 92-year-old man from Chatham was safely located this week.
On Tuesday, police received a report concerning a missing person believed to be driving in the Chatham-Kent area. Due to concerns for the individual’s well-being and their unfamiliarity with the area, officers initiated an extensive search.
During the investigation, police used CCTV and Automated Licence Plate Recognition information to establish sightings of the missing person’s vehicle in Chatham and Bothwell. Later that evening, additional information placed the vehicle travelling westbound on Longwoods Road in Thamesville.
At approximately 10:50 p.m., police received a 911 call regarding a suspicious person and a request for ambulance assistance at a Longwoods Road residence. Officers responded and located the missing person after their vehicle had run out of fuel and they had pulled into a driveway. Police and EMS attended, and the individual was transported to hospital for assessment following a fall while exiting the vehicle.
“Technology such as CCTV can provide our officers with critical information that helps narrow a search area and direct police resources where they are needed most. When a vulnerable person is missing, every piece of timely information can make a difference,” said Staff Sgt. Jason Herder.
Police say the incident demonstrates how CCTV and other investigative technologies can provide valuable information during time-sensitive investigations, particularly when officers are working to locate vulnerable members of the community.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service thanked community members and partner agencies who assisted during the search, and continues to encourage residents and businesses with exterior security cameras to recognize the role their systems may play in supporting police investigations.
