Repeat offenders could be named and shamed on posters appearing around Southend.

Southend police Chief Supt Mick Thwaites has warned serious and persistent offenders could face having their photos placed prominently around the town centre.

The warning comes as a prolific car thief and burglar becomes the first to be shamed in Brentwood.

The scheme is to proceed after a High Court injunction to stop it failed to materialise.

Crack addict and persistent burglar Gary Ellis, 27, formerly of The Meads, Ingatestone, was chosen after being sentenced to a three-and-a-half year jail term for burglary and theft.

The scheme, the first of its kind in the country, was launched by Essex Police in November in partnership with British Transport Police, Great Eastern Railways and Little Chef restaurants.

Crooks receiving a minimum custodial sentence of 12 months are considered under the scheme to ensure only repeat and serious offenders will appear.

Under strict protocols, a letter will be served at the time of sentencing and the offender has seven days to register an objection.

A risk assessment is also carried out by the probation service, social services and the police to ensure any mental health issues are identified and any vulnerable relatives of the offender do not become targets. Mr Thwaites said he personally supports Brentwood's action.

He said: "I am really in favour of this - it is a good way forward. We are starting to look at this for alcohol-related violent crime. We will also consider burglary and vehicle crime."

The Town Centre Task Force will be meeting later this week to discuss a range of issues including naming and shaming criminals.

Published Wednesday, January 29, 2003

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