London Binge Drinkers To Be Tagged

31 July 2014, 11:40 | Updated: 31 July 2014, 11:43


The "sobriety tags", which will be worn around the clock, will enforce abstinence by measuring a person's perspiration every 30 minutes and testing to see if it contains alcohol.

If any trace is found, an alert will be sent to the offender's probation officer and they can then be recalled to court, where they could face sanctions such as a fine or be re-sentenced.


The 12-month scheme is being trialled in four London boroughs - Croydon, Lambeth, Southwark and Sutton.




Alcohol-related crime is estimated to cost the UK between £8 billion and £13 billion every year, while 40% of all accident and emergency attendances are related to alcohol misuse.

Mr Johnson said: "'Alcohol-fuelled criminal behaviour is a real scourge on our high streets, deterring law-abiding citizens from enjoying our great city, especially at night, placing massive strain on frontline services, whilst costing businesses and the taxpayer billions of pounds.


"This is an approach that has seen impressive results in the US, steering binge- drinkers away from repeated criminal behaviour, and I am pleased we can now launch a pilot scheme in London."