Matheson announces further offender control options

More powers to the courts to use electronic tagging as part of a community disposal for offenders were announced by Justice Secretary Michael Matheson today, as he also confirmed the location of the first two community custody units.

These units, for managing lower-risk female prisoners closer to local services and support, will be located in Maryhill, Glasgow and at a site still to be confirmed in Dundee.

The Scottish Government's legislative programme for the coming year, announced last week, includes an extension of the presumption against short prison sentences from three months to one year, which Mr Matheson backed up in the Parliament by citing evidence that over half those released from a prison sentence of 12 months or less are reconvicted within a year, compared to a third of those who served a community sentence. However, he assured MSPs that short jail terms should be imposed when they are the only suitable option.

A recent consultation produced 88% support among respondents for giving courts more powers to use electronic tagging as part of a community sentence. This would come with a rollout of GPS technology in addition to existing radio frequency systems.

Among positive impacts of tagging identified in the consultation responses were the ability to help safeguard women in domestic violence cases, and to enable people with physical and mental health needs to continue with care in the community.

Mr Matheson commented: “A just, equitable and inclusive society is one that is supported by a progressive evidence-based justice system; a system which works with communities to reduce – and ultimately prevent – further offending. A system which holds individuals to account for their offending, but ultimately supports them to make positive contributions to our communities."

He added: “Electronic monitoring is already an important tool in the delivery of justice. It carries a punitive element and offers a range of options to improve public protection, while allowing an individual to maintain their employment and family links. When used to enforce curfew conditions, it can provide stability to those whose offending is part and parcel of a chaotic lifestyle.”