NCJ Number
184834
Journal
Corrections Technology and Management Volume: 4 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 2000 Pages: 42-44
Date Published
2000
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article describes the technology and application of satellite monitoring and remote tracking (SMART) in the supervision of offenders in the community.
Abstract
This system uses a wireless IP network to track and record offender movement around the clock. In the 1,500 cases nationwide that use this technology, none of the individuals being supervised recommitted a felony while on the program. Under satellite monitoring, a magnetic anklet device works in tandem with a two-pound monitoring pack that offenders can carry over their shoulder. The two units must always be within 150 feet of each other. The technology commonly used is made by Pro-Tech Monitoring and uses AT&T's cellular digital packet data technology. The monitoring pack transmits a short burst of encrypted data every minute over a wireless network. The data hits a community corrections monitoring system, interfaces with highly detailed mapping software, and identifies the location within 50 feet. If the person is driving a car or riding a bus, the system can tell how fast the vehicle is moving and in which direction. Community supervision officers, using the mapping software, designate "hot zones" that offenders cannot enter. Before installing such a program, however, plans must be developed to take into account, data storage capabilities, adequate response to violation alerts, suitable staffing levels for 24-hour monitoring, and notifying victims correctly. Six months of planning is required before a program can be launched.