Convicted criminals have been told they need no longer wear high-visibility jackets after abuse and threats from passers-by.

The vests, which have 'Community Payback’ on them, are worn by low-risk offenders while they carry out community work in Medway.

A benefits fraudster says he has had an aggressive reaction from people and would rather go to jail than be humiliated by having to wear one of the jackets.

As part of a government initiative aimed at improving public confidence in the justice system, offenders sentenced to unpaid work now have to wear the bright orange jackets to highlight what they are doing for their punishment.

It has been devised by neighbourhood crime and justice adviser Louise Casey, who has visited unpaid work schemes being supervised by Kent Probation Service.

But Nigel,from Medway, has spoken out after claiming he and fellow offenders are being threatened by members of the public while wearing the jackets.

The offender, sentenced to 300 hours of community service, had already completed 100 hours before he was asked to wear the jacket about two weeks ago.

He said:“I am there for a punishment, I’m not there to be humiliated and abused.”

~ Audio: 'Nigel' speaks to kmfm about why he feels the jackets are unfair (his voice has been distorted) >>>

Incidents in Medway has forced Kent Probation to temporarily withdraw its hi-viz vest policy at two affected sites.

• To read blogger Alan Watkins' view click here