Judicial systems across the United States are broadening the application of electronic monitoring (EM) for individuals awaiting trial. This growing reliance stems from EM’s ability to enforce court-ordered conditions and manage public safety risks within the community.
A recent municipal court decision exemplifies this trend. A defendant, already out on bond for a previous incident, was ordered to wear an electronic monitoring device as a condition of pretrial release. The order followed new allegations, underscoring how courts utilize EM to bolster supervision, especially in complex cases or for individuals with a history of infractions.
EM’s Critical Role in Pretrial Supervision
Electronic monitoring technology offers a robust layer of accountability for defendants released into the community. Devices, often GPS-enabled ankle bracelets, provide real-time location tracking. This capability allows courts to enforce specific geographic restrictions, such as exclusion zones around victims or sensitive locations. They can also ensure compliance with curfews or other movement limitations.
For individuals facing serious misdemeanor or felony charges, EM serves as a crucial tool. It provides an alternative to pre-trial detention, easing jail overcrowding while still addressing public safety concerns. Judges often impose EM when considering the nature of the charges, the defendant’s flight risk, and their potential danger to the community. This technology helps ensure defendants appear for court dates and adhere to release stipulations, offering a verifiable method of supervision that traditional bond conditions alone cannot always provide.
A Competitive Field
The electronic monitoring sector includes a diverse range of established providers and innovators. BI Incorporated, a subsidiary of the GEO Group, remains one of the largest forces in the U.S. market. SCRAM Systems holds a significant position in alcohol monitoring, known for its continuous transdermal alcohol detection devices. Attenti, now part of Allied Universal, delivers monitoring solutions to programs in over 30 countries globally. Smaller, specialized vendors also contribute to the market. This includes companies like the UK-based Buddi, and manufacturers offering advanced one-piece GPS designs. Examples include the CO-EYE series, which incorporates optical-fiber tamper detection for enhanced security and features a quick three-second snap-on installation for ease of use.
As technology advances, so does the sophistication of electronic monitoring. Future innovations will likely focus on enhanced tamper detection, improved battery life, and more integrated solutions for comprehensive offender management. EM continues to evolve as an indispensable tool for community supervision and criminal justice risk management.
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