The first project in Europe to use satellites to track paedophiles and other offenders has been launched by Home Secretary David Blunkett.
The new technology can pinpoint a criminal's postion to within six feet.
In a pilot scheme, up to 120 offenders will be fitted with satellite tags.
The tags will be used on sex offenders, domestic violence offenders and prolific criminals following their release from jail or as part of a community sentence.
Some 40 offenders will be tagged in Manchester, the West Midlands and Hampshire under the pilot scheme.
The pinpointing information could prove vital if a paedophile on probation strayed too close to a school.
An alarm would sound if a paedophile entered a school playground, allowing police to track their movements.
It could also check whether prolific burglars were at the scene of a break-in.
It is hoped the scheme will help relieve Britain's overstretched prison systems.
Speaking at the launch in Manchester, Mr Blunkett said: "This technology will allow us to develop and promote the tough community sentences which are vital if we are to prevent re-offending.
"The public have to be confident that this 'prison without bars' works. We need to make sure this technology is robust and reliable."
http://www.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30100-13211229,00.html
welcome