NCJ Number
177174
Journal
Legal and Criminological Psychology Volume: 4 (February 1999) Issue: Dated: Pages: 33-43
Date Published
1999
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This article considers findings from government trials of electronic monitoring in England and Wales, and the extent to which these were considered in the design of a new curfew order with electronic monitoring.
Abstract
The new curfew order became a sentencing option in three pilot areas in 1995. Its use and effectiveness in reducing offending behavior have been watched very closely by a variety of practitioners and policy makers within the criminal justice system. However, little attention has been given to the recommendations arising from the first government trials of electronic monitoring in 1989. Those highlighted the conditions to which monitored persons were subjected, and related problems. The article looks specifically at recommendations regarding information given to the candidate; appraisal of the dwelling in which monitoring is to take place and effects on cohabitees; minimum and maximum curfew hours; and the need to improve hardware and software associated with monitoring. It then considers the progress of the current curfew order, assesses whether suggested improvements have been made, and looks at the effects on the offender's ability to comply with the order. Notes, references