POLICE have been given body cameras in the fight against crime.

Essex Police have bought 82 Carmacams to provide vital evidence against criminals in court.

The devices, which can also pick up sound, clip onto the officer’s stab vest and can be activated when a disturbance breaks out.

They will primarily be used to tackle antisocial behaviour, public disorder and domestic violence.

Insp Chris Willis hopes the cameras will act as a deterrent and reduce the need for witnesses to give evidence in court.

He said: “In other forces where the cameras are already in use, offenders have been more inclined to accept liability when they’re confronted with footage of their actions.

“The cameras also remove the need for officers to document every action in statements where the recordings provide a clear and unambiguous record of what was said and done.”

The cameras were rolled out across all 14 policing districts on Friday. They have been funded by Essex Police crime reduction, Essex County Council, and some of the county’s district and borough councils and community safety partnerships.

Offenders will be warned when a recording is going to be made and will see a red light appear on top of the device.