Scotland to pilot GPS tracking for domestic abuse bail suspects

First Minister John Swinney has announced a pilot program to implement GPS electronic tracking for individuals released on bail, specifically targeting those accused of domestic abuse. The initiative aims to enforce geographical restrictions and provide real-time monitoring to protect women and girls at risk.

The pilot is scheduled to launch by the New Year in parts of central Scotland, covering the Tayside, Fife, and Central sheriffdoms, under the leadership of Sheriff Principal Gillian Anne Wade KC. Regulations to enable the scheme are expected to be presented to the Scottish Parliament before the October recess.

The announcement follows intense advocacy from bereaved families, including the relatives of Stacy Hunter and Demi Hannaway. Advocates have called for systemic reforms, such as “Demi's Law,” which would require police to investigate critical warning signs in domestic abuse cases. Swinney also committed to a multi-year public health campaign designed to challenge misogyny and harmful behaviors among boys and men.