NCJ Number
104817
Date Published
1987
Length
83 pages
Annotation
After examining the nature and use of electronic monitoring technology, this study considers associated legal, administrative, and policy issues and suggests guidelines for implementing an electronic monitoring program.
Abstract
The systems currently used in electronic monitoring are a continuous signaling system which constantly monitors the offender and a programmed contact system which randomly calls offenders to verify their presence at home at the time of the call. Ten electronic monitoring programs were examined. The types of offenders eligible for the programs vary, with only two programs including felony offenders. A total of 370 offenders have completed electronic supervision programs. Although evaluation data are limited, failure rates are apparently less than for regular probationers. A properly designed program should withstand a constitutional challenge. Given the novelty of the practice, States should enact laws to grant immunity from liability for criminal justice personnel involved in electronic monitoring programs. Electronic monitoring can be a useful tool over the short term, but excessive periods of monitoring are abusive and inconsistent with the diversion concept. Programs should be initiated with a select cohort of nonviolent, low-risk offenders, and support for such a program should be solicited from the community and criminal justice system components. Before contacting vendors of electronic monitoring equipment, planners should set a level for acceptable performance. Equipment should be tested prior to use on offenders, and staff and offenders should be trained prior to program implementation. Appendixes contain equipment and program descriptions, equipment costs, sample forms, and 58-item bibliography.