NCJ Number
113838
Date Published
1988
Length
9 pages
Annotation
In 1987, chronic overpopulation of the Juvenile Hall prompted Orange County, Calif., to consider using electric confinement with juveniles.
Abstract
Two known programs in Indiana and North Carolina appeared to operate well with no unusual incidents. Consequently, a 90-day trial program was implemented for clients of three existing juvenile custody release programs: home supervision, home confinement, and community transition furlough. During the trial, 100 minors were electronically monitored for periods of 5 to 30 days. Based on the successful outcome of the trial program, electronic monitoring was expanded from 25 to 40 slots and became a formal part of probation programming. Preliminary observation indicates that electronic monitoring works about as well with juveniles as with adults in terms of its impact on inmate population, violations, and readmissions. There appear to be no legal objections, and participation can be declined by the minor and/or parents. The program has resulted in increased workloads for officers and data entry clerks, and officers suspect that some undetected violations of conditions occur. Factors that should be considered in selection of program participants include parents' work schedule, trustworthiness, and preference; minor's scheduled activities; officer safety; equipment compatibility; time factors; and minor's attitude, history, and gang involvement. Overall, electronic home confinement appears to be a safe and effective alternative, given adequate planning, screening, and supervision.