Chelmsford Police Domestic Violence Unit is out to prove that pictures speak just as loud as words.

Four sponsored polaroid cameras will be available to officers from today (Friday) to help with instant evidence and ease the fears of domestic violence victims.

The cameras, will be kept at Chelmsford, Maldon, South Woodham and Southminster police stations.

High Chelmer Shopping Centre has donated £900 for the law enforcement kits, each consisting of a polaroid camera, light attachment and film.

The cameras will be used by officers to take immediate photographs, providing instant evidence that can still be used even if the victim is later reluctant to make a statement.

Included in the initiative are mobile phones provided by Colchester Mobile Phone Company. They are limited to emergency calls only and will be available, following a risk assessment, to victims who have no other means of contacting police in an emergency situation.

Insp Chris Mackintosh of Chelmsford Police said: "One of our priorities in the Chelmsford division over the next three years is to tackle violent crime.

"The way police deal with domestic violence has changed considerably in recent years. No one should have to be afraid in their own home.

"The aim of this initiative is to give more victims the confidence to report attacks."

Left to right, Insp Chris Mackintosh and Chief Insp Dave Folkard from Chelmsford Police with High Chelmer Shopping Centre deputy manager, Kim Carlaw.

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