How CCTV Helped Sydney Police Investigate Hate Crimes at Schools Leave a comment

In early 2025, Sydney schools were targeted by a series of antisemitic graffiti attacks, sparking outrage and fear across the community. Thanks to CCTV cameras installed on school grounds and nearby streets, police were able to gather crucial evidence and identify suspects. This incident demonstrates how effective surveillance systems can support law enforcement and protect schools from hate-driven crimes.

The Incident in Sydney

Several Jewish schools and surrounding areas in Sydney’s eastern suburbs were vandalised with hateful graffiti. The attacks occurred late at night over several weeks, leaving the community shaken and demanding answers. Police appealed to the public and reviewed surveillance footage from multiple sources, including school-installed cameras, to track the movements of the suspects.

How CCTV Helped

School cameras captured:

• Vandals entering school property after hours
• Details of clothing and identifying features
• Vehicle make, model, and registration
• The exact time and sequence of events

This evidence provided police with a clear timeline and helped them appeal for witnesses and build a case against those responsible.

Why Schools Need CCTV for External Threats

While many think of CCTV as a way to monitor students and staff during the day, its role in protecting against outside threats is equally important. Benefits include:

• Deterring potential vandals and intruders
• Monitoring perimeter fences, car parks, and access points
• Supporting police investigations when incidents occur
• Reassuring parents and the wider community that the school takes security seriously

Best Practices for Using CCTV in Crime Prevention

✅ Cover Vulnerable Areas – Install cameras at entrances, along fences, and around parking areas where vandalism and trespassing are most likely.

✅ Ensure Night Vision Capability – Use infrared or low-light cameras to capture clear footage even in darkness.

✅ Maintain a Clear Field of View – Keep cameras free of obstructions like overgrown trees or poorly placed fixtures.

✅ Cooperate With Police – Have a plan for how and when footage can be shared with authorities, ensuring chain of custody is preserved.

✅ Post Signage – Letting people know that CCTV is in use can itself discourage malicious behaviour.

Final Thoughts

The Sydney hate crime investigation highlighted the critical role CCTV plays beyond day-to-day operations. For schools, a well-planned surveillance system is more than just a deterrent — it’s an investment in community safety and peace of mind.