Paedophiles and rapists face chemical castration in new crackdown

Reports suggest that paedophiles and rapists may soon face compulsory chemical castration in a bold government measure aimed at curbing reoffending rates.

It is believed that those incarcerated, as well as individuals handed suspended sentences, could be subjected to pharmaceutical intervention. Studies have indicated that using medication to suppress deviant sexual urges can reduce the risk of reoffending by as much as 60 per cent.

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood is reported to be considering enforcing chemical castration. An insider disclosed to The Sun: "For too long, we have turned a blind eye to the threat sex offenders pose, considering the solutions too difficult or unpalatable. Shabana isn't squeamish about doing what it takes to protect the public. As always, she will grab this problem by the proverbials."

Despite the Independent Sentencing Review suggesting a limited voluntary trial in the South West, such proposals are deemed insufficiently robust. Contrarily, plans to expand the programme to 20 jails in England and Wales have been mooted, with a comprehensive national implementation on the horizon.

Birmingham Ladywood MP since 2010, Ms Mahmood is said to be examining the potential implementation of obligatory chemical castration, mirroring some practices in the US, including states like California where it is a mandatory condition for paroled convicted sex offenders, reports

Initial steps would focus on the incarceration system, but there is talk amongst officials about extending the scheme even to convicts with suspended sentences, as per reports from The Sun.

In countries like Germany, France, Sweden, and Denmark, sex offenders have the option to voluntarily undergo chemical castration. These programmes reference studies, one of which indicates that reoffending rates could be cut by as much as 60 per cent.

Chemical castration involves two types of medication: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which curb invasive sexual thoughts, and anti-androgens, which suppress testosterone and reduce libido. Alongside these treatments, offenders often receive psychiatric sessions to help manage other impulses.

Since becoming Justice Secretary in July last year following Labour's sweeping victory in the General Election, Ms Mahmood has been focusing on reducing reoffending rates throughout the UK and alleviating the pressure on overcrowded prisons.

To prevent jails from reaching capacity by November, inmates are being released early. This measure was taken after Ms Mahmood acknowledged the necessity for more action against prison overcrowding, with thousands released prematurely in the autumn.

However, ahead of the programme's launch, the 44 year old politician remarked that the early release initiative "only buys us some time".

The forthcoming Independent Sentencing Review, spearheaded by ex-Tory minister David Gauke, is expected to recommend greater use of suspended sentences, the deportation of more foreign criminals, and an increase in community-based punishments.