NCJ Number
166488
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 58 Issue: 4 Dated: (July 1996) Pages: 88,90-91
Date Published
1996
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article describes existing technological enhancements for parole supervision in California, along with those anticipated for the future.
Abstract
As early as 1983 the California Department of Corrections formed the Technology Transfer Committee. Some of the technologies it has approved in the area of parole supervision are state-of-the-art electronic monitoring systems and products designed to easily and accurately detect substance abuse. The electronic monitoring system currently used in California is more sophisticated than its predecessors and considerably more reliable. A stronger signal has almost eliminated false violations. The use of electronic monitoring is restricted to high-risk offenders as a supplement to intensive supervision. Other technologies are being used in California to facilitate the management of information for more than 108,000 cases being released on parole every year. The California Department of Justice maintains the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System, which includes automated criminal history and wanted persons systems. In 1992 the Supervised Release File was begun; it linked the Parole and Community Services Division (PCSD) to local law enforcement agencies. This system not only allows police officers to know more about any parolees they may encounter but also provides field data to parole officers on any contacts parolees have with police.