Monitoring through video cameras begins at Heilbronn marketplace
In a bid to enhance security and combat crime in the city, Heilbronn has introduced video surveillance on its Market Square. This move is part of a broader partnership between the Heilbronn Police Headquarters and the city of Heilbronn, established since April 2023 under the Concept "Secure Heilbronn."
The video surveillance, operational from Monday to Friday, 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., and on Saturdays, 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., is considered an essential success factor in the increased presence of police and the local public order service in the city area. The Heilbronn Police Headquarters, with the support of concept forces of the external police deployment, covers the personnel costs for ensuring video surveillance.
Frank Spitzmüller, President of the Heilbronn Police Headquarters, emphasized the launch of this surveillance system, stating, "Video surveillance is another building block of our security architecture." Harry Mergel, Mayor of Heilbronn, also expressed his support, saying, "The introduction of video surveillance is a crucial step in maintaining the safety of our city."
The city of Heilbronn bears the costs of the technical implementation of video surveillance. The recordings are stored for 72 hours and then permanently deleted, unless required as evidence for criminal offenses. The Heilbronn Police Headquarters uses civilian police officers to support video surveillance efforts.
Despite the overall good security situation, the number of registered criminal offenses in Heilbronn's city center, particularly the market square, has been increasing for several years. Specific crime-fighting measures have been tailored to address certain groups, including the poser and racer scene. The security authorities and the city of Heilbronn have intensified their measures, including regular controls of the poser and racer scene.
It is worth noting that the city of Heilbronn consistently ranks at the top of safety charts among large cities in Baden-Württemberg. The positive statistical crime development in Heilbronn in 2024 is attributed to numerous police measures already in place.
The partnership between the Heilbronn Police Headquarters and the city of Heilbronn was strengthened and expanded on October 17, 2024, with the signing of the cooperation agreement "Secure Heilbronn." This agreement provides support for ensuring video surveillance.
The active video surveillance on Heilbronn Market Square is limited to a time period starting at 8:00 PM on September 3, 2025. The initiative is part of the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of the city's residents and visitors.