A PROFESSOR is piloting pre-conviction lie detector tests to deal with suspected internet sex predators as part of a pioneering programme devised in the North East.

Prof Don Grubin, a forensic psychiatrist at Newcastle University, is leading a trial with Hertfordshire Police that uses detailed polygraph tests to asses the risk posed by sex offenders who are accused of accessing graphic images online.

Last night, he said the scheme had the potential to “cut costs and focus lines of investigations” as well as “protect the public” by correctly managing high-risk offenders.

He also urged the Government to consider routine polygraph examinations for convicted sex attackers who have been released on licence.

Prof Grubin, who is based on Tyneside, said: “The problem is that police have to examine computers which can take some time, up to a year in some forces, so the offender has a long wait.

“There is a risk that the suspect could commit contact offences in that time. The police carry out risk assessments to identify the high-risk offenders.

“The new system could confirm they had categorised the low risk offenders correctly. On the other hand we need to demonstrate that the low risk really are low risk.”

Fifteen voluntary cases, all deemed to be low risk, were tested with polygraph tests which monitor heart rate, brain activity, sweating and blood pressure, during questioning.

And one third of those thought to be low risk offenders were reclassified after disclosing information that showed they posed a danger to the public.