Kent Police is continuing its campaign to reduce crime in Chatham through the relentless pursuit of persistent and prolific offenders.
In the year to the end of May, there were reductions in crime within the Chatham Central and Brompton Ward when compared to the preceding two years.
It’s reported there were 1,004 fewer victim-based offences, 478 fewer violence against the person offences, 42 fewer sexual offences and 142 fewer shoplifting offences.
The expansion of the ‘Clear, Hold, Build’ initiative into the town centre at the end of May, has seen criminals targeted and deterred from visiting the area through regular high-visibility police and partner activity. To support this ongoing work to protect Medway residents from harm, Kent Police will be deploying Live Facial Recognition (LFR) cameras in the town on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 September 2026.
This innovative technology will be used to identify suspects connected to criminal activity.
Ch Insp Gary Woodward said:
‘The crime reductions in Chatham and Brompton are positive but we are not complacent and are determined to maintain this momentum by purposefully tracking down those who pose the greatest risk to our residents, businesses and visitors. Using Live Facial Recognition is just one way of supporting this ongoing fight against offenders.’