Electronic Tagging of Offenders 2021-11-09
2021-11-09
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The roll-out of electronic monitoring for offenders is being discussed, aiming to reduce reoffending rates.
What progress has been made on the roll-out of electronic tagging for offenders? The programme aims to address reoffending by ensuring that those released from prison and convicted of acquisitive crimes wear GPS tags. Between April and September, over 1500 offenders had sobriety tags.
There has been excellent progress with the GPS tagging programme for prolific acquisitive criminals, now covering half of England and Wales. Over 1500 offenders wore sobriety tags between April and September. The scheme aims to reduce reoffending rates by monitoring these individuals closely.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The programme's impact on policing is being questioned, especially regarding the resources required to enforce tagging.
What discussions have there been with the police about resources needed for bringing back in people who may be breaching their tags? The Minister has welcomed progress on GPS tagging but needs to think about other offences where it could be used.
The scheme aims to reduce the burden on policing by tracking tagged individuals 24/7, making it easier for police to find offenders breaching their tags. As we expand from six to 19 police forces across the country, monitoring the impact remains crucial. So far, police are enthusiastic proponents of the programme.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
▸
Context
Investment in future technology to ensure electronic tagging keeps pace with offender behaviour is discussed.
What steps will be taken to invest in the latest technological advances, so that tagging can keep up with the evolving behaviour of offenders? Newcastle-under-Lyme hosts the North Staffordshire Justice Centre and constituents welcome the progress made.
£19 million of £183 million investment will go into finding the holy grail—a drugs tag to fit offenders' ankles. This technology aims to prevent drug use, thus deterring reoffending. The market is being stimulated for this future technology.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy