Offenders to face 'restriction zones' after release
New GPS-monitored areas aim to prevent contact between criminals and victims.
Incident → evidence → outcomeSerious sexual and violent offenders could be confined to areas just a few miles wide after being released from prison, the Justice Secretary has announced. The new 'restriction zones' are intended to reduce the possibility of unwanted contact between criminals and their victims. This initiative goes beyond current practices, which typically involve exclusion orders banning offenders from specific locations like homes or workplaces.
Monitoring and Consequences
Probation officers will have the authority to limit offenders' movements for as long as deemed necessary. Breaching these boundaries could result in offenders being sent back to jail. Justice Secretary Alex Norris stated that GPS technology will be used to monitor movements, ensuring that individuals who step outside the designated areas can be quickly identified and face recall to prison.
“I’m determined that no victim should have to look over their shoulder, change their routine, or live in fear of crossing paths with the person who harmed them. That’s why we’re introducing tough new restrictions on sexual and violent offenders, confining them to areas just a few miles wide and using GPS technology to monitor their movements.”
Mr Norris added that victims will have a say in setting these boundaries, which aims to give them greater freedom and peace of mind. He stated, 'It’s simple: offenders should carry the consequences of their crimes, not their victims.'
Prison Release Review
The announcement comes as Prime Minister Andy Burnham is reviewing the early prisoner release scheme. This review is being conducted due to concerns about prison overcrowding. The early release scheme, which began in September 2024, was initially implemented to ease pressure on jail capacity. Mr Burnham has already made changes to the scheme's eligibility, excluding individuals convicted of rape, serious child sex offences, and grooming. The outcome of his review is expected when Parliament returns from its summer recess on September 1.
Questions this report answers
01What are the new 'restriction zones' for offenders?
These are new zones, a few miles wide, where serious sexual and violent offenders will be confined after release from prison. The aim is to reduce the chance of them contacting their victims. GPS technology will monitor their movements within these areas.
02Who decides where these restriction zones will be?
Victims will have a say in setting the boundaries for these restriction zones. This measure is intended to provide victims with greater freedom and peace of mind following their experiences.
03What happens if an offender breaks the rules of a restriction zone?
If an offender breaches the boundaries of their restriction zone, they could face being sent back to prison. Probation officers will monitor their movements using GPS technology, and breaches can lead to recall.
04Why is the early prisoner release scheme being reviewed?
Prime Minister Andy Burnham is reviewing the early prisoner release scheme because of concerns about prison overcrowding. The scheme was introduced to help ease capacity issues in jails.
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