HOUSE ARREST GPS monitoring system tracks offenders

The technology will help track the whereabouts of high-risk offenders.
By BOB JACKSON
VINDICATOR COURTHOUSE REPORTER
YOUNGSTOWN -- Community Corrections Association will soon use satellite technology to keep track of certain people who are on parole or probation.
Richard Billak, chief executive officer, said the global positioning satellite monitoring system will help keep track of "high-risk" offenders such as pedophiles or people who have multiple convictions for domestic violence.
"It can locate an individual in any site in the community," Billak said.
The new system is an expansion of traditional electronically monitored house arrest, in which offenders must wear an ankle bracelet that sets off an alarm if they leave their house.
Billak said that besides a standard ankle bracelet, offenders will be given a small unit that can be worn with a belt clip or carried in a purse. It sends a signal that is picked up by a tracking satellite.
The system can be programmed to alert authorities if the offender goes near a "red zone" or "exclusion area," such as a school or a crime victim's home, Billak said.
He said it also can be used to determine whether the offender has gone to work, as those on probation are required to do.
Itinerary
CCA officers will have a daily itinerary for each offender being monitored with the new system. If the offender leaves the tracking unit at home, but the probation officer knows he or she should be at work, the officer will go to the offender's house to investigate.
Billak said the tracking equipment cost about $3,000, which CCA paid. He said there is a fee of $5 to $8 per day, which must be paid by the offender.
CCA has only enough equipment now to outfit five people with the tracking equipment, but Billak said he expects more to be acquired soon as the method catches on with judges.
jackson@vindy.com