Auto Amazon Links: No products found.
John Swinney has confirmed that from next year, a GPS tracking pilot will be introduced in specific areas of central Scotland, including Tayside, Fife, and Central sheriffdoms, targeting individuals on bail who are suspected of domestic abuse. The announcement came during a Scottish Parliament debate focused on tackling violence against women. Prior to the debate, Swinney met with survivors of domestic abuse and relatives of victims at Holyrood, in a meeting organized by Russell Findlay, the Scottish Conservative leader.
The pilot scheme was initially outlined in the government’s recent programme for 2026-2031. Swinney stated that the necessary regulations to initiate this GPS tracking trial, which will be overseen by Sheriff Principal Gillian Anne Wade KC, are planned to be submitted before the October parliamentary recess. The government aims to begin implementation next year, emphasizing that the rollout will be conducted under strict local protocols designed to ensure public safety. This move responds to criticism around the slow adoption of GPS technology in Scotland, which lags behind its use in other countries.
In addition to the GPS tracking pilot, the government has committed to maintaining a £2 million fund dedicated to supporting women and children fleeing abusive situations. There are also promises of multi-year funding for charities that provide crisis support to women and girls, alongside plans to officially recognize misogyny as a distinct form of prejudice and abuse. A public health campaign aimed at confronting toxic male behaviour will also be launched. However, Sean Hunter, whose sister Stacy was murdered by her estranged husband while he was on bail, has voiced that these measures do not go far enough. He has demanded immediate changes to prevent further tragedies.
Sean Hunter, speaking to BBC Scotland News, shared his belief that GPS monitoring could make a meaningful difference. Yet, he stressed the need for authorities to more carefully consider specific offences such as strangulation and attempted murder when deciding bail for domestic abuse suspects. Liz Shanks, a domestic abuse survivor who spoke with Swinney at the Holyrood meeting, echoed concerns about shortcomings in the justice system. She warned that if victims feel the system does not respond effectively, they may hesitate to come forward. The debate also featured calls from various opposition parties for a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond technology, advocating for enhanced police resources, stronger bail laws, education on misogyny in schools, and improved enforcement of violations related to domestic abuse
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.