Sussex Police Lead The Way With GPS Tags For Repeat Shoplifters

Sussex Police has become the first force in the country to fit repeat shoplifters with GPS monitoring tags as part of a new pilot scheme, Operation STOP.

Under the initiative, offenders are issued with discreet Buddi ankle tags either as part of a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) or with probation approval.

The devices allow police to track movements in real time, helping deter further offences and enabling swift action if the tag is tampered with or conditions are breached.

At Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 19 September, Victoria Hale, 50, became the first person to be fitted with a Buddi tag following guilty pleas to 12 shoplifting offences.

Her tag keeps her out of a 30-metre radius around the Co-Op in Albert Road, Eastbourne, for 12 months.

Earlier this month, Barry Farthing, 41, was jailed for eight months after a six-week shoplifting spree in East Sussex. As part of his CBO, he must wear a GPS tag for 12 months and is banned from entering a 40-metre radius around the Co-Op in Parkstone Parade, Hastings, and from any Co-Operative or Tesco store across East Sussex.

Chief Superintendent Katy Woolford said:

“Shoplifting has an enormous impact on businesses and the wider community.

"In Sussex we are leading the way with this innovative scheme to tackle repeat offenders, and we will continue to work closely with our partners to protect our business community.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne added:

“For the first time ever, Operation STOP is taking direct aim at prolific shoplifters using electronic tags.

"The pilot is already delivering real results with successful court outcomes that help protect local businesses.”

The scheme highlights Sussex Police’s commitment to supporting businesses and targeting repeat offenders with innovative solutions.