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Abstract: 

Over the past several years the use of electronic monitoring as a correctional tool has been increasingly scrutinized. While some criticisms about how this technology is being utilized have merit, one specific claim must be challenged: that electronic monitoring is simply incarceration by another name. Some critics even refer to monitoring bracelets as “digital shackles.” This article shows why nothing could be farther from the truth. Certainly, electronic monitoring is a form of control, and therefore intrusive, but when used as a true alternative to jail or prison, it is intellectually dishonest to equate them. This line of thinking is dangerous for two major reasons. First, it minimizes the significant negative consequences of actual incarceration on the individual, families, and communities. Second, curtailing the use of electronic monitoring as some critics have called for, would only result in more “actual” incarceration. Without the option of a community-based alternative that includes electronic monitoring, courts, parole boards, and other authorities will be more inclined to continue over-using detention and incarceration. The author, who for many years headed the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center, reviews the clear advantages for offenders and the justice system in the areas of medical and mental health, safety and security, subtance use treatment, and the economic and social impact on children, families and communities. This article was published in December 2020, is Copyrighted © 2020, and contains material that was current in 2020.

Keywords: Electronic Monitoring and Incarceration

Affiliations:  1: University of Denver.