Scheme aims to cut risk of youths re-offending

CRIMINALS in Kent are being offered the chance to mend their ways by volunteering to wear an ankle tag.

- By SIMON FINLAY

Cllr Bill Barrett A Buddi Tag PICDESK2

(PICDESK2)

The tags use technology similar to a car's satellite navigation system to pinpoint the wearer's location in real time which has led to the nickname “chav nav”.

Kent Police has secured funding for 15 of the Buddi-branded tracking devices, which have been rolled out into other parts of England and Wales.

The tags are used to monitor the movement of individuals, typically under the age of 25, who are considered to be at risk of criminal exploitation or repeat offending.

It is thought that the scheme helps to deter harmful behaviour and supports rehabilitation.