NCJ Number
124884
Journal
Journal of Offender Monitoring Volume: 3 Issue: 3 Dated: (Summer 1990) Pages: 12,14-19
Date Published
1990
Length
7 pages
Annotation
A two-part national electronic monitoring survey was conducted in 1989 and 1990. This article provides preliminary data on part one of the study, a program and offender census conducted in February 1989 which examines the characteristics of monitorees.
Abstract
The survey reveals that use of electronic monitoring has greatly increased, particularly by those agencies supervising persons whose legal status is that of inmate or parolee. An increase in electronic monitoring of unconvicted defendants was also noted. While all types of equipment have seen increased use, "passive" or "programmed contact" equipment, ankle transmitters, and a newly-developed hybrid have gained an increase in market share. There was no apparent correlation between equipment type and offender status, program size, or program age. Approximately two-thirds of all programs collect user fees and, while fees vary widely, the average was $200 per month. Perhaps the most difficult issue in electronic monitoring is the response to technical violations of program rules. The most common response, by 96 percent of the programs, was a written or verbal warning. Ten percent of programs surveyed said that technical violators were incarcerated; other sanctions included tightened reporting requirements, increased urine testing, stricter curfews, and increased random calls. While equipment difficulties remain an issue, use of electronic monitoring is expected to grow. 1 chart, 1 table.