Essex criminals could be named and shamed on a police website.
 

The nationwide police.uk website are planning a rogues’ gallery with pictures and details of recently convicted adult criminals called In The Dock.
 

The scheme is set to be rolled out following a successful trial in Yorkshire.
However a spokesman for Essex Police said the force had no plans to change its policy regarding releasing information to the public about convicted criminals.
 

Nick Alston, police and crime commissioner candidate for the Conservatives in Essex, welcomed the scheme.
 

He said: “I think this will be a powerful tool.
 

“Naming and shaming criminals in some circumstances allows the public to see justice being done in their area and can act as a further deterrent against criminals committing crime in their local communities.
 

“It will not be right for all crimes and in all areas, and the police would have to approve the publishing of details on a case by case basis.
 

“As police and crime commissioner I would encourage local communities, in consultation with the police, to decide if they want to name and shame criminals in their area, but this will be a useful weapon against local crime and anti-social behaviour.”