Hundreds of sex offenders unaccounted for in UK

By Abi Simpson

Figures released today show that 396 known sex offenders are currently missing in the UK.  

Photo by: Ian Britton

These statistics released by 39 forces all over the UK under the Freedom of Information Act, has revealed that there are nearly 400 sex offenders, living in Britain, unaccounted for.

Registered sex offenders are expected to report to authorities with their addresses so they can be monitored.

Sarah Payne, whose daughter was killed by a peadophile, said the figures were "unacceptable."

Some sex offenders included in the list have been missing for more than a decade.  One person in Gloucestershire has been missing for more than 2 years.

The Metropolitan Police said 167 sex offenders were wanted in London alone, with one who has been missing for 14 years. 

The Forces emphasised that figures could change if arrests were made or if new cases came to light.

Some have offered the suggestion that sex offenders should be tagged for life, so that this sort of thing can be avoided in the future. 

Every force which responded to the FOI request refused to name individuals who are missing for fear of their safety.