Electronic Snappers Lead to Arrests

Dozens of criminals on parole have been caught stealing while wearing GPS ankle tags. These electronic devices have led to the arrest of offenders who have been charged with 58 unsolved thefts and burglaries since 2021. Police were able to use the built-in tracking device to pinpoint them at the scene of the crime during the exact time of the offense.

Expansion of Tagging Deters Reoffending

Aside from catching bonehead burglars, the expansion of GPS tagging has deterred thousands from reoffending. The technology is being piloted across 19 police forces and the hope is to roll it out further to alleviate the overcrowding in prisons. Justice Secretary Alex Chalk stated that tags allow for limits on liberty and tough punishment, providing a real sense of justice and acting as a deterrent against further offending.

Driving Change and Cutting Crime

The Ministry of Justice data reveals that 700,000 neighborhood crimes mapped by police have no matches with tag lags. This highlights the effectiveness of GPS tagging in combating crime. Andy, a former serial burglar from Gwent, who was placed on the tag for 12 months, attests to its impact. He stated that the constant surveillance made him feel like he was being watched 24/7, deterring him from returning to his old ways. He credits the tag with providing a fresh start and helping him turn his life around, now running his own business.