Pioneering Sussex scheme tracking shoplifters' location saves thousands of pounds
It's estimated Operation STOP has saved around £15,000 in court and policing costs.
A UK-first scheme tagging Sussex's worst offending shoplifters has saved the criminal justice system thousands of pounds, the Police and Crime Commissioner says.
It's estimated Operation STOP - which tracks the location of prolific offenders for twelve months - has saved around £15,000 in court and policing costs.
It's being trialled in East Sussex, where seven people have already been tagged.
Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said around 30 offences have been prevented by tagging just two shoplifters:
"Very quickly, the first offender dropped their offending by 2/3, which was really good," she explained.
"And then the second offender, his has completely stopped. So we've had no re-offending from him for several months now."
She added that the pilot's also stopped around £1300 worth of stock being stolen from shops.
"Initially the pilot began in Hastings and Eastbourne, but we're looking to extend it further," Katy said. "With support I'd like to have it across the whole county."