BOSTON, Mass. (WTVR) — Boston police have found an inexpensive way to deter crime using cardboard cutouts of officers to cut down on crimes like bike theft.
The officer, who is posted near one bike rack, said the simple plan works.
“It was a concept that creating the visual presence of police, even if it’s a virtual type presence, a cardboard cutout, signage all these things can potentially in the short-term can help drive down crime,” said one officer.
Police said the time it takes to see the cutout is enough to discourage would-be thieves.
They also said stationing an officer at the location full-time would cost around $200,000.
