Thieves and burglars in West Midlands to be fitted with GPS trackers
It's part of a new effort to cut down on reoffending
Prolific burglars, robbers and thieves are going to be tagged with GPS trackers in a bid to stop them from reoffending.
Under new plans, they'll be fitted with the devices for up to 12 months after being released from prison.
It means the government and six police forces - including West Midlands Police - will be able to monitor their movements 24 hours a day.
The minister from crime and policing, Kit Malthouse, has called it the next step in rehabilitation.
"“Being burgled or robbed is devastating and I understand how frustrating it is when the perpetrators can’t be caught, both for the public and the police.
“Tagging these prolific offenders might persuade them to change their ways but will help police find and charge them if they don’t. It’s another tool helping probation staff to cut crime and keep the public safe.”
According to Ministry of Justice figures, more than half of those jailed for theft go on to reoffend.
The MoJ says the move will reduce an £2.7 billion burden placed on taxpayers by crime every year.