Government launches GPS monitoring scheme for released violent offenders

The UK government has started using GPS tags to track serious sexual and violent offenders after their release from prison. The scheme began in October 2025.

Under the new system, offenders must stay within a small geographic area, usually a few miles wide. Probation officers can see where offenders are at all times. If an offender breaks the rules, they can be sent back to prison.

Victims have a say in where the boundaries of these zones are set. This means victims can move around their local area with less fear of meeting their offender.