UK to implement GPS restriction zones for violent offenders

The UK government is introducing a new regime using GPS-powered electronic tags to confine sex and violent offenders to specific “restriction zones” upon their release from prison. These zones, which may be only a few miles wide, are designed to prevent reoffending and provide victims with greater freedom of movement. Unlike the current system that bars offenders from specific locations, this new approach allows victims to have a say in drawing the boundaries of the zones where offenders are confined.

Under the £700 million initiative, offenders will be monitored 24/7 in real time. The Ministry of Justice stated that offenders will receive push notifications when approaching a boundary to prevent accidental breaches. Any violation of these zones could result in the individual being sent back to prison.

Justice Secretary Alex Norris stated, “No victim should fear the shadow of an abuser on their back.” The measures are part of a broader plan involving the early release of approximately 5,000 prisoners in stages starting in October to manage prison capacity. Under the new rules, all offenders released from custody will be electronically monitored for up to a year, with tagging potentially beginning before they leave jail to avoid administrative delays.