Prolific offender's early release costs police £1,887

A high-risk prolific offender released under the government's Early Release Scheme was recorded stealing from two supermarkets within 24 hours of his release. The incident required 27 officer hours from the Metropolitan Police, costing an estimated £1,887. Councillor Jennifer Grocock, Conservative shadow cabinet member for community safety on Barnet Council, has raised concerns about the scheme's consequences for local policing and public safety.

Offender's actions after release

The offender, assessed as high risk by the Probation Service, was released on 7th October. CCTV footage captured him stealing from two supermarkets shortly after his release. Reports indicate he continued offending throughout the weekend. Police officers were subsequently required to locate, arrest, investigate the new offences, and return him to custody.

Councillor Grocock stated that the time spent by officers on this case could have been allocated to other essential duties such as patrolling streets, investigating other crimes, or protecting victims. She emphasised that police time was diverted to manage the repercussions of releasing a known prolific offender back into the community.

Metropolitan Police concerns

The Metropolitan Police has repeatedly expressed concerns regarding the risks associated with releasing more offenders into the community and the increased financial burden this places on policing resources. Councillor Grocock noted that similar cases are occurring across London, with fears that the situation may escalate as more offenders are released early. She questioned the extent of consultation between the government and the Metropolitan Police before the scheme's introduction and what actions were taken in response to police warnings.

Councillor Grocock stated that the government should not transfer the consequences of prison pressures onto the streets. She added that each hour an officer spends dealing with an individual recently released from prison is an hour they cannot dedicate to other public safety duties. Barnet residents, victims, and the police deserve clearer answers regarding the policy's implementation and its impact.