A new pilot scheme is to be introduced by Devon and Cornwall Police which will give some first-time offenders the chance to avoid a criminal conviction.

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez has placed the GPS Pathfinder deferred charging scheme at the heart of her plan for the region.

It invests in early help services for young people, their families and those at risk of offending in the future.

After an arrest for an offence, a decision will be taken on an offender’s suitability for the scheme which can involve restorative justice and work in the community.

Devon and Cornwall Police will be the second force to introduce such a scheme.

The three-year pilot will be launched in June.