What is the primary purpose of electronic monitoring in community corrections?

The primary purpose of electronic monitoring in community corrections is to track the location and compliance of offenders in the community. This technology serves as a tool for supervision, allowing correctional agencies to ensure that individuals adhere to the terms of their release, such as curfews or geographical restrictions. Electronic monitoring provides real-time data about an offender’s whereabouts, helping to enhance public safety and increase accountability among those under community supervision.

While the roles of employing such technologies may also intersect with job-finding initiatives or broader crime prevention strategies, these are not the main focus of electronic monitoring. Instead, the core objective revolves around maintaining oversight of offenders to promote compliance with the conditions set forth by the court or supervising authority. This level of tracking is a significant step towards maintaining control and enabling rehabilitation without resorting to incarceration.