NCJ Number
99832
Date Published
1985
Length
6 pages
Annotation
A discussion of the development of systems for electronically monitoring offenders placed on home confinement accompanies descriptions of programs in five jurisdictions that are considering or using monitoring programs involving equipment currently on the market.
Abstract
Active and passive electronic monitoring systems aim to monitor an offender's presence in the home or community corrections setting. The active systems in operation since 1983 consist of a transmitter strapped to the offender, a receiver-dialer in the offender's home, and a central computer that accepts reports from the receiver-dialer over the telephone line. Palm Beach County, Fla., has used such a system, mainly for drunk-driving offenders who otherwise would be incarcerated. The large geographical area involved has necessitated the use of a WATS line. Metal and other factors cause interference with signals between the transmitter and the receiver-dialer. Visibility of the transmitter and chafing from the strap are additional problems for some offenders. Jurisdictions in Kentucky, Oregon, Michigan, and Utah are operating or considering the use of monitoring systems. Electronic monitoring may prove to be a workable option for controlling convicted offenders, although further refinements are likely as the technology advances. Photographs, discussion of passive systems, list of three related reports.