Force to use facial recognition to hunt criminals

Facial recognition technology will be used on Tuesday as part of a police operation.

Essex Police said they would deploy the technology in Basildon in response to recent incidents of robbery, vehicle theft, targeted shoplifting and burglary.

A spokesperson said: "We use it to find people wanted for serious offences, to help enforce orders against those whose faces are put on a watch list, and to protect those who are vulnerable and at risk of harm.

"If your face is not on the watch list, the technology deletes your image in a fraction of a second. It is not retained in any way and is not stored on any database."

The operation on 17 September will be the fifth time facial recognition has been deployed in Essex.

Its use has led to numerous arrests, the force said.

Sgt Harry Shelton said: “This kit has already proved its worth in making a number of key arrests relating to investigations into serious offending, including sexual assault and domestic abuse.

“It is our hope it will supplement and complement our ongoing operation targeting a recent spate of burglaries in Basildon and Brentwood.

“This work has already seen a key arrest and charges against one individual, and our work is very much continuing into the coming week.”

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