DOMESTIC abuse and public order offences could be captured on new video cameras worn by Cleveland Police officers.

By recording crimes as they happen, the force is anticipating that will improve accountability, increase public confidence and reducing complaints.

The Reveal Media RS3SX cameras are already being used by 30 of the 42 forces up and down the country.

They have been funded by the Ministry of Justice Competed Fund through the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Cleveland, Barry Coppinger.

Cleveland Police Acting Deputy Chief Constable, Simon Nickless said: “It will provide strong additional evidence for use in court and it is hoped that it will help increase public confidence.

"In addition, our officers face threats of danger on the streets every single day and body worn video will go some way to protect them from harm."

Mr Coppinger said: “As part of a joint effort in tackling violence against men and women with PCC for Durham, Ron Hogg, and PCC for Northumbria, Vera Baird, we applied for the funds to implement body worn video in Cleveland.

“The cameras will assist the police in dealing with potentially dangerous incidents and it could help bring more criminals to justice.”