NCJ Number
102513
Date Published
1986
Length
253 pages
Annotation
This study describes the technological and cost aspects of using electronic monitoring equipment to supervise offenders in the community, reviews current programs operating in several States, and assesses the feasibility of this approach for Texas' corrections system.
Abstract
The report reviews 10 vendors that offer 2 types of equipment: a system which constantly monitors the offender and one which randomly calls offenders and requires verification of their presence. Costs for both purchase and lease and the use of current telephone lines are discussed. A survey of 10 programs initiated by States and counties notes that failure rates have been low. A section on the potential applications of this technology for Texas covers program proposals, estimates of the number of eligible offenders, and cost projections. Also discussed are philosophic, policy, and legal issues including nonmonetary benefits, public safety considerations, constitutional challenges, and needed legislative amendments. The report concludes that electronic monitoring appears to be feasible and suggests the State implement a pilot project while conducting additional research. The appendixes contain survey instruments, lists of electronic monitoring device vendors and current users, an analysis of constitutional issues, relevant reports, a pilot project design, and about 50 references.