In a novel approach to tackling youth crime, Kent Police is set to deploy voluntary GPS tracking ankle tags for young offenders. The initiative, which has been informally nicknamed 'chav nav', aims to provide real-time monitoring to deter individuals from reoffending and support their rehabilitation.
How the 'Chav Nav' Scheme Works
Kent Police has secured funding for 15 Buddi-branded monitoring devices, similar to technology already used in other parts of England and Wales. The programme is overseen by the force's Integrated Offender Management team and targets individuals typically under the age of 25.
Participants volunteer to wear the tags, a factor praised by officials as it indicates a desire to change. The devices use satellite navigation-style technology to provide up-to-date location data, enabling police and partner agencies to supervise those at risk of being drawn back into crime or criminal exploitation.
Support from Officials and Proven Benefits
The scheme is detailed in a report by Chief Constable Tim Smith to Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott. Mr Scott expressed his approval, stating he was "pleased that Kent Police is considering all possible options for the prevention of crime and supporting rehabilitation."
He highlighted that the tags have proven to be a successful and cost-effective tool in reducing crime and incidents of people going missing. The Kent and Medway Violence Reduction Unit (VRU), which oversees the use of the tags, noted they are for those at risk of gang exploitation or identified as high-harm offenders who wish to lower their risk.
Ashford county councillor Bill Barrett welcomed the development, hoping the tags would be used in his constituency. "Pretty much every town in Kent has suffered from antisocial behaviour and shoplifting in recent years," he said, emphasising the voluntary nature of the scheme as a positive step.
A Response to Rising Crime Figures
The initiative comes against a backdrop of increasing local crime statistics. According to Kent Police's own data, antisocial behaviour rose by 9.3% year-on-year to September, while retail crime increased by 12.2% in the 12 months to September.
Beyond targeting shoplifting and antisocial behaviour, the monitoring devices can also be valuable in domestic violence situations and for overseeing prisoner curfew arrangements. The VRU stated that the system supports partnership working, helps build better relationships with individuals, and diverts them from the risks associated with crime.
While the force has not disclosed the exact amount of funding for the tagging scheme, it represents a proactive investment in a technological solution to a persistent community safety issue.
