NCJ Number
105343
Date Published
1987
Length
16 pages
Annotation
In January 1985, the Texas Criminal Justice Policy Council formed a study committee to examine the feasibility of using house arrest and electronic monitoring as a community-based correctional alternative.
Abstract
The effort focused on existing technology, current programs, legal issues, and philosophic and policy concerns. The Committee examined passive and active monitoring devices, some requiring a telephone and others not. Of 10 manufacturers interviewed, only 4 had equipment functioning in programs. Estimated average daily costs of the equipment ranged from $1.20 to $9.04 for outright acquisition; costs were slightly lower for lease-purchase and straight lease agreements. Interviews with probation administrators indicated that most felt that the technology should only be used to divert offenders who otherwise would be incarcerated. While some viewed the technology as a useful tool, others expressed concern over the emphasis on survellance as opposed to rehabilitation. Administrative concerns focused on the 24-hour a day nature of the service and the development of appropriate training programs and operating procedures. Of 10 programs examined, most used electronic monitoring for diversion or as part of an intensive supervision program, usually with less serious offenders. While the technology may be a useful tool, it is not a sole remedy for prison overcrowding and cannot substitute for sound correctional policymaking. 1 table and 11 references. (Author abstract modified)