By GB News (World News) | Created at 2026-10-08 12:06:16 | Updated at 2026-10-08 13:17:24
1 hour ago
The Metropolitan Police is dealing with more than 100 electronic tagging breaches per day in London, with the re-arrest of three early-release prisoners each week, according to Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley.
Sir Mark said the force had seen a sharp increase in arrests linked to offenders released early from prison, as ministers attempt to ease pressure on an overcrowded prison system.
His comments, made on LBC Radio, come amid concerns over the release of violent and sexual offenders convicted of violence against women and girls, including stalking and domestic abuse.
A recent report by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Probation found that almost half of electronic tags used to monitor offenders in England and Wales were not fitted on time, with the watchdog warning delays could leave victims exposed to a risk of harm.
Sir Mark said the Metropolitan Police was receiving more than 100 tag-breach cases a day from probation services.
He said more than 95 per cent of the tagging breaches resulting in an arrest were followed by the suspect being released back into the community on the same conditions, which he argued provided little deterrent.
The Commissioner said the situation was contributing to growing pressure on officers, particularly as more offenders were being managed in the community, rather than held in custody.
He also said the number of people failing to appear at court had risen, with the Met receiving almost 1,600 arrest warrants a month, compared with about 800 at the beginning of the year.
Sir Mark Rowley said the force had seen a sharp increase in arrests linked to offenders released early from prison
Sir Mark said the force had arrested around two to three offenders released under Labour's early-release scheme each week since the beginning of August, adding police were increasingly focused on identifying those considered the most dangerous and prolific.
He said he was particularly concerned about repeat domestic abusers and stalkers, describing some as potentially “very difficult” and dangerous offenders.
One woman, who said her stalker is due to be released in January, told the Commissioner she was angry and did not feel safe, questioning whether enough had been done to reduce the risk posed by his release.
Sir Mark said he shared concerns about the impact of the early-release policy on communities, while acknowledging decisions over sentencing and imprisonment ultimately rested with the Government and courts.
Robert Sabat pleaded guilty to murdering his former partner, Dickiesha Nurse, 42, in south London in October 2025 after being released from HMP Wandsworth
A spokesman said public safety would remain the priority, pointing to “increased police funding, additional neighbourhood officers and greater investment in probation”.
The Government also said it was introducing tougher controls for offenders released on licence, including expanded electronic tagging and new restrictions on where some offenders can go.
It said victims would also be given greater input into licence conditions.
