NCJ Number
226850
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 36 Issue: 4 Dated: April 2009 Pages: 34-38
Date Published
April 2009
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Highlighting the efforts of the State of Illinois, this article examines the effectiveness in utilizing GPS (global positioning system) tracking devices to monitor offenders, particularly offenders at high-risk of reoffending and relieving the burden on jail and prison populations.
Abstract
In the past, GPS devices were generally used in-house, as discipline, consisting of more sanction than preventative measure. Today, in the State of Illinois, following the passing of the Cindy Bischoff Law, anyone charged with violating court orders of protection are required to wear GPS tracking units until his/her case is resolved. Inclusion and exclusion zones (safe zones) are defined and secured by an electronic fence. The electronic fence can arm itself, identify an infraction immediately, and allow facilitators to provide interaction and guidelines to offenders through a real-time monitoring center. Today, one-piece devices, worn on the ankles, are available which incorporate cellular technology and eliminate the bulkiness or need for 2-piece units. The area where intensive GPS use can do the most good is in tracking sex offenders. GPS offers a system already overtaxed, undermanned, and underfunded with meaningful oversight and supervision of sex offenders. It is only a matter of times before GPS tracking devices can be used widely and intelligently to prevent repeat offenses.