Sussex Leads UK with Electronic Tagging Scheme for Shoplifters

For the first time ever in the UK, shoplifters will be electronically tagged as part of a groundbreaking initiative rolled out by Sussex Police.

The move follows the successful securing of two Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) against repeat shop theft offenders, setting a national precedent in the fight against retail crime.

The scheme, Operation STOP (Shop Theft Offender Pilot), is currently being trialled in East Sussex under the leadership of Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Katy Bourne, with support from Sussex Police, His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS), the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), and Probation services.

The numbers show just how urgent action is: between October 2024 and September 2025, Sussex recorded a 10% year-on-year increase in shoplifting. Over half of these crimes end with no suspect identified, but where individuals could be identified, there were 2,085 named offenders. More than 1,200 extra charges, community resolutions, and cautions were issued during this period compared to the previous year—a clear sign that repeat offending is a real challenge.

Under Operation STOP, repeat offenders will wear discreet Buddi GPS ankle tags—either as part of a CBO or by agreement with probation services. These devices enable police to track movements in real time, rapidly detect breaches or tampering, and, crucially, deter further offences.

Individuals wearing the tag are offered addiction, housing, and employment support to address underlying causes of offending. A dedicated Sussex Police Constable acts as a single point of contact with the courts and CPS to ensure smooth delivery of the scheme.

The standard tagging period is 12 months, but can be extended based on circumstances.