Say cheese: 'America's toughest Sheriff' lets public rate mugshots online

Arizona-based Joe Arpaio, known for his uncompromising stance on crime, is letting the public browse through the mugshots of those arrested each day and then vote for their favourite.

The Maricopa County, Arizona Sheriff says he hopes the increased Web traffic will highlight the work of his employees.

He also says more crimes may be uncovered if the public can view the photos.

Winner: Tuesday's current leader, by a wide margin, is this shot of Benjamin Luna who was arrested on drugs charges. It is not known what his face is covered in

The top picks so far aren't unexpected: They're the most dishevelled, unusual looking people among those booked into an Arizona jail.

And while the new scheme may be controversial, it has the overwhelming backing of those using the site, with 4102 out of the 4964 people who have voted so far agreeing with Arpaio.

Visitors to the Sheriff's page mcso.org are greeted with the day's current most popular shot.

The top seven most popular pictures are displayed first.

Users can also sort those arrested by crime, picking via a menu ranging from sexual offences to assault.