NCJ Number
130036
Journal
British Journal of Criminology Volume: 31 Issue: 2 Dated: (Spring 1991) Pages: 165-185
Date Published
1991
Length
21 pages
Annotation
An attempt is made to map the contours of debate on electronic monitoring of offenders, or "tagging," in England and Wales in the context of moves to develop more coercive noncustodial measures generally and to raise some examples of the moral and political issues in which tagging gives rise.
Abstract
In late 1989, three electronic monitoring pilot schemes, ostensibly targeted on remand prisoners, were established with the intention of operating for six months. On the basis of the available evidence, they were unsuccessful. However, the government continues to promote tagging and suggests that this work be undertaken by a private agency rather than the probation service which -- unlike its equivalent in the United States -- has dissociated itself from this new development. More progress has been made in the United States than in Britain in addressing the moral and political issues which tagging raises, largely around the issue of invasion of privacy. Targeting emerges as the central moral/political issue associated with tagging for a number of commentators. However, new moral or political issues may arise, even if electronic monitoring is "properly" targeted and used as a genuine alternative to custody. The responsibility to develop a critical response to electronic monitoring continues. 72 references (Author abstract modified)