The government is introducing new legislation to ban the possession and distribution of electronic devices commonly used in vehicle theft, such as ‘signal jammers’ and keyless repeaters. This measure aims to curb the increasing use of these sophisticated tools, which are implicated in a significant proportion of car thefts in England and Wales.
Under the new law, individuals found in possession of these devices, or involved in their import, manufacture, adaptation, or distribution, could face a maximum prison sentence of five years and an unlimited fine. Previously, prosecution required proof that the devices had been used in a specific crime. The burden of proof will now shift to the owner to demonstrate a legitimate purpose for possessing such equipment.
This legislative change is part of the government’s wider strategy to enhance public safety and address the impact of crime on everyday life. Minister for Policing, Crime and Fire Prevention, Dame Diana Johnson, highlighted the devastating effect of vehicle theft on victims and the government’s commitment to tackling this issue at its source by preventing these devices from reaching criminals and organised crime groups.
The government will also continue its collaboration with the National Police Chiefs’ Council, including supporting the National Vehicle Crime Reduction Partnership, which unites police and manufacturers to combat vehicle crime. Statistics from the Crime Survey for England and Wales (2022-2023) indicate that signal manipulation from remote locking devices was involved in 40% of vehicle thefts. The Metropolitan Police Service estimates this figure to be around 60% in London.
RAC head of policy Simon Williams welcomed the government’s action, stating that outlawing these devices is overdue given the high number of vehicles stolen daily. AA president Edmund King also supported the move, suggesting that the tougher penalties should deter thieves. ACC Jenny Sims, National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for vehicle crime, described signal jammers as having no legitimate purpose and welcomed the new offences as a means to reduce their availability to criminals.
Source: Gov.uk