‘Use imaginative’ punishments to fight rural crime

The State should target the finances, properties and vehicles of criminals as part of a “more imaginative” response to combating rural crime, according to a nationwide community body.

Muintir na Tíre said this meant more than just imprisoning criminals — and included electronic tagging of offenders, curfews, travel restrictions and community service.

It wants all garda districts to join Muinter na Tire’s community alert system — claiming where they do crime rates are lower.