December 30, 2005
Beep, beep ... "u.o.us"
Offenders who fail to pay their court fines could receive a text message warning them "to pay up or get locked up", informs Reuters.
Under plans outlined by the government, magistrates courts in England and Wales are to look at sending messages by text or email to fine evaders and those who fail to show up to court or for community service. The messages warn those that don't comply with their court orders that they could face further action.
In a successful trial in Staffordshire, 75% of the offenders who were sent SMS immediately paid up.
"Everybody's got a mobile phone and as one of the most common ways to keep in touch these days, it makes sense for the courts to contact offenders that way too," Constitutional Affairs Minister Harriet Harman said. "It doesn't cost much, it's quick and effective and most importantly offenders take notice too."
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