NCJ Number
116319
Date Published
1989
Length
24 pages
Annotation
Planning, purchasing and use of electronic monitoring (EM) devices for supervision of offenders on home detention is examined, and the legal basis for these aids as defined in court cases is summarized.
Abstract
Two types of monitoring equipment are available: 1) programmed contact, requiring the offender to respond on cue and 2) continuous signal, consisting of a radio transmitter strapped to the offender which transmits signals from the offender to a receiver/dialer in the offender's home which are sent to the central computer. Some systems combine the two technologies and add voice verification. Implementation of EM should include clear program design for review by legal counsel as well as for effective development of the Request for Proposal. The legal issues of right to privacy, self-incrimination, unlawful search and seizure, and cruel and unusual punishment have not been formally challenged in Federal or State appellate courts since the offender's acceptance of EM as a condition of release has been viewed as constituting voluntary consent. Successful programs in Colorado, Georgia, New Jersey, and Utah are described. References.