PSNI launch system to track violent and sex offenders

Police have today introduced a database, which allows them to monitor and manage sex and violent offenders.

The Violent Offender and Sex Offender Register (ViSOR), which was launched in Belfast this morning, will connect local police to a national computer network which will in turn enable them to share information on offenders with partner agencies.

ViSOR will play a vital role on a national basis by allowing the authorities to keep tabs on offenders wherever they go in the UK.

This represents a significant contribution to public protection, in particular children and vulnerable adults in our community.

Launching the ViSOR database at Garnerville Police College in Belfast today, Assistant Chief Constable for Criminal Justice Department, Judith Gillespie, said:

“Criminal justice agencies appreciate the significance of compiling and, even more importantly, sharing information about violent and sex offenders. The Bichard Inquiry into the handling of Ian Huntley in the Soham murders case has given added impetus to the need for criminal justice agencies, in particular the police, to be able to share information.

“In this first stage, only sex offenders will be placed on the database. Violent offenders will be put on the system when the necessary legislation is in place. We would also hope that partner agencies in Northern Ireland will become connected to ViSOR."

The Assistant Chief Constable concluded that while ViSOR will mainly be used as a tool to manage sex offenders, it will also be used for the prevention and detection of crime which, should lead to increased community safety and public confidence.

(EF/SP)