Prolific burglar helped to curb offending through scheme to reform prisoners

A serial burglar has been helped to reduce his offending thanks to a specialist police programme to rehabilitate criminals on their release from prison. 

Adrian is a prolific offender who has been involved in more than 18 aggravated burglaries, attempted burglaries and theft.

The 44-year-old has a history of substance misuse, additional learning needs, and family members who are known to police, which influenced his offending behaviours.

He was referred to the force’s Integrated Offender Management (IOM) scheme and given a year-long licence in June 2023 with conditions that required an agreement not to commit any further offences or be otherwise liable for a recall to prison.

The requirements also included spot drug testing and wearing an electronic GPS tag.

Nottinghamshire Police’s IOM programme, which is part of the Prevention Hub, unites partner organisations including the probation service, local authorities, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help rehabilitate former prisoners.

It targets prolific criminals, including domestic abuse and young offenders, who commit a disproportionate level of crime across the city and county.

With the support of his offender manager and the IOM scheme, Adrian successfully complied with the licence during the year-long period, reduced his level of offending, and did not go on to breach his conditions.

Pathways out of offending are provided through comprehensive, wraparound support to interrupt the cycle of reoffending and address underlying causes such as help with housing, employment, universal credit, education, finances and debt, behaviour, and relationship skills.

Through engaging with the IOM programme, the team were able to offer access to supported accommodation, mental health services and financial support.

Ultimately, however, offenders who do not engage with the programme and continue to commit crimes will be prosecuted.

The Prevention Hub is a collaboration between multiple force departments responsible for developing and delivering strategies to prevent crime and disorder throughout the city and county. 

Sergeant Rebecca Jepson, of Nottinghamshire Police’s Integrated Offender Management team, said: “Cases such as this demonstrate how the IOM programme can positively influence and help reform offenders.

“Academic studies have shown that a minority of offenders are responsible for a large proportion of society’s crime, which is why it is crucial we work proactively with our partner organisations to reduce the reoffending of prolific individuals.

“The reasons for offending are complex, but by understanding and addressing these underlying causes directly we can help prevent crime from taking place and reduce harm.

“This ultimately makes our communities safer and reduces victims of crime and costs to the criminal justice system.”

*Adrian’s identity has not been disclosed by Nottinghamshire Police whilst he continues to engage with the IOM programme.