Cincinnati is currently testing a revolutionary technology for electronic monitoring of low-level offenders. Instead of traditional ankle bracelets, the Southwest Ohio County Court System is piloting a program that utilizes smartwatches. This innovative approach aims to remove the stigma associated with electronic monitoring, providing a more discreet way to keep an eye on those who break the law.
Judge Robert Peeler of Warren County is leading the effort to help reintegrate criminal offenders into society using a device called the VeriWatch. This device, similar to a smartwatch, replaces the clunky and uncomfortable ankle bracelet with a smaller, less conspicuous option. Despite its size, the VeriWatch is still capable of tracking a person’s movements 24/7.
Peeler believes that this technology is a game changer as it removes obstacles to recovery. He emphasizes the importance of individuals feeling valuable as human beings and highlights that the scarlet letter of traditional ankle bracelets can hinder this process.
Barry Latzer, a criminal justice professor at John Jay College, is an advocate of electronic monitoring but stresses the need for rigorous testing of this new technology. He raises concerns about verifying that the offender is the one wearing the watch and hasn’t found ways to evade monitoring.
Law enforcement officials who have tried out the smartwatch’s features, such as remote sensors that detect removal, assure that these scenarios are unlikely. They have actively attempted to tamper and remove the devices, mimicking what defendants might try. Additionally, the individuals wearing the smartwatches will be responsible for covering the costs unless they lack the financial means. In such cases, the state will provide grants to ensure affordability.
Compared to the daily cost of housing an inmate at Warren County Jail, which amounts to nearly $93, the new smartwatch costs less than $5 per day. Experts argue that this price is reasonable considering the potential savings and the positive impact on offender reintegration.
While it’s uncertain if other states are considering similar programs, Peeler expects the trend to catch on. Notably, smartwatch monitors are not only associated with criminal offenders but are also used by immigration officials. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been testing wrist monitors to track migrants facing deportation, as reported by CBS News.
In conclusion, Cincinnati’s experimentation with smartwatch electronic monitoring represents a significant step towards a more discreet and stigma-free approach to surveillance. It has the potential to revolutionize offender integration and monitoring systems, benefiting both individuals and law enforcement agencies across the country.
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