> Public CCTV is usually run by local councils which are independent from the police. If the police want to get any of this footage, and use it to prosecute, th

> Public CCTV is usually run by local councils which are independent from the police. If the police want to get any of this footage, and use it to prosecute, they need to get a court order or subpoena. I think you're wrong here. In Westminster, where I live, the police just ask for it and get it. Last month I witnessed a street brawl outside where I live, the police already had CCTV before they were on the scene; it was 4am on a Sunday morning, unlikely a judge would issue a warrant at that time. Also I know places like McDonald's will just hand it over to the police when asked if in connection with a criminal investigation.