Electronic Monitoring Program Research Articles

“Feeling Almost like Everyone Else” – Israel’s Electronic Monitoring Program: Perceptions and Attitudes among Released Prisoners and Their Supervisors

The growing use of various methods for electronic monitoring (EM) in the Western criminal justice system has led researchers to examine the social and personal consequences of this type of monitoring. This article examines perceptions toward the EM program among supervised released prisoners and their supervisors in Israel. Questionnaires were given to all released prisoners participating in the EM program in 2010, as well as to 12 supervisors and Parole Board members. The EM program’s strong focus on occupation, therapy, and developing a good relationship with a therapist, compared with the alternative of continued custody, appears to have led most released prisoners to express, or at least declare, a high level of positive expectations for the future and a sense of partnership with the normative circles surrounding them. However, supervisors expressed a high level of ambiguity over the program’s goals and operational protocols. While program supervisors emphasized the importance of the rehabilitation and therapeutic elements of EM, Parole Board members showed mixed reactions toward the program.

Opioid management of pain: the impact of the prescription opioid abuse epidemic.

The greater emphasis on pain control over the last decade has been accompanied by increased opioid prescriptions and an epidemic of opioid abuse. This review examines the financial, regulatory, and clinical practice impact of the epidemic, the factors contributing to its growth, and strategies that may counter this public health crisis. Despite the call for urgent practice change and the introduction of new initiatives such as electronic prescription monitoring and additional education programs for providers and patients, the evidence for improved outcomes are limited. There are also concerns that some patients may suffer from underprescribing as an unintended consequence of more stringent state and federal regulations. There is consensus that some form of universal precautions should be adopted for all patients, including those being treated for cancer-related pain, in order to better identify and manage those at risk of opioid abuse. The opioid prescription abuse epidemic has precipitated calls for increased regulation. Clinicians can improve patient care and diminish opioid abuse by identifying patient risk factors, increasing vigilance and structure for those at risk, and providing interdisciplinary care for any patients coping in a maladaptive manner.

Recidivism Among Licensed-Released Prisoners Who Participated in the EM Program in Israel

Toward the end of 2006, a pilot program was launched in Israel wherein licensed-released prisoners were put under electronic monitoring (EM). In addition to EM, the pilot program, operated by the Prisoners' Rehabilitation Authority, provides programs of occupational supervision and personal therapy and is designed to allow for early release of those prisoners who, without increased supervision, would have been found unsuitable for early release. The aim of this study was to ascertain whether participation in the EM program among licensed-released prisoners in Israel might bring about lessened recidivism. For that matter, rates of arrests and incarceration were examined during a follow-up period of up to 4 years, among the entirety of licensed-released prisoners participating in the EM program between the years 2007 and 2009 (n = 155). To compare recidivism rates, a control group was assembled from among the entirety of released prisoners who were found unsuitable for early release in judicial conditions, and had therefore served the full term of their incarceration, to be released between the years 2005 and 2006 (a period of time during which an EM program was not yet operated among licensed-released prisoners in Israel). Study findings clearly show that while among the control group, 42% of released prisoners were re-incarcerated, at the end of a 4-year follow-up period, only 15% among the study group had returned to prison. These findings can be explained by combining the Social Control theory and the Self-Control theory which consider the period of time under EM program and the occupational and familial integration tools for reducing criminal connections and enhancing pro-social behavior.

Sociolegal Characteristics and Parole Infractions Among Israeli Released Prisoners During Electronic Monitoring

The objective of this study is to examine the part played by sociolegal characteristics such as ethnic background, family status, or criminal past in the rate of infractions among ex-prisoners in Electronic Monitoring (EM) Programs. In addition, it focuses on the nature of the formal decisions made by community supervision agents regarding such infractions and their correlation with the sociolegal characteristics of the participants. The research population included all prisoners on license (i.e., prisoners who have been granted conditional early release) who took part in the EM project from mid-2007 until mid-2009 (24 months), altogether 155 participants. The data show no significant correlation between the number of infractions and the participant's sociolegal background. In spite of the fact that the EM coordinators have extensive discretionary power, which is likely to lead to discrimination attributable to variables such as ethnicity, this research shows that the most efficacious variable for explaining formal responses is an objective one-the number of infractions.

The Allocation of a Scarce Correctional Resource: Deciding Who Is Eligible for an Electronic Monitoring Program

Participants rated hypothetical prisoners with respect to their suitability for a place on a British Home Office electronic monitoring (tagging) program. Five dichotomous variables (gender, race, previous criminal record, dependents, skill level) were combined in a factorial fashion to generate 32 descriptions. Females were favored over males; first‐time offenders over those with a criminal record; individuals with dependents over those with no dependents; and the skilled over the unskilled. White participants favored White prisoners over Black, while the reverse was true for Black participants. Those with a negative attribute (criminal record) attracted lower priority ratings than did White prisoners with a record, but those with a positive attribute attracted higher ratings than did White first‐time offenders.

Profiling multiple provider prescribing of opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and anorectics

Background The main objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of multiple providers for different controlled substances using the largest electronic prescription monitoring program (PMP) in the United States. A secondary objective was to explore patient and medication variables associated with prescriptions involving multiple providers. PMPs monitor the final allocation of controlled substances from pharmacist to patient. The primary purpose of this scrutiny is to diminish the utilization of multiple providers for controlled substances. Methods This is a secondary data analysis of the California PMP, the Controlled Substance Utilization Review and Evaluation System (CURES). The prevalence of multiple provider episodes was determined using data collected during 2007. A series of binomial logistic regressions was used to predict the odds ratio (OR) of multiple prescriber episodes for each generic type of controlled substance (i.e., opioid, benzodiazepine, stimulant, or diet pill (anorectic) using demographic and prescription variables. Results Opioid prescriptions (12.8%) were most frequently involved in multiple provider episodes followed by benzodiazepines (4.2%), stimulants (1.4%), and anorectics (0.9%), respectively. The greatest associations with multiple provider episodes were simultaneously receiving prescriptions for different controlled substances. Conclusions Opioids were involved in multiple provider prescribing more frequently than other controlled substances. The likelihood of using multiple providers to obtain one class of medications was substantially elevated as patients received additional categories of controlled substances from the same provider or from multiple practitioners. Polypharmacy represents a signal that requires additional vigilance to detect the potential presence of doctor shopping.

Usefulness of prescription monitoring programs for surveillance—analysis of Schedule II opioid prescription data in Massachusetts, 1996–2006

Electronic prescription monitoring programs (PMPs) have been developed in many states as a public health surveillance tool. We analyze herein 11 years of Massachusetts PMP data to evaluate trends in opioid prescribing, dispensing, and usage. Prescription records from the Massachusetts PMP for Schedule II opioids from fiscal year 1996 to 2006 were analyzed. 'Questionable activity' (potential 'doctor shopping') estimates were based on individual use of multiple prescribers and pharmacies, and early refills. The number of prescriptions, doses prescribed, and individuals receiving Schedule II prescription opioids steadily increased from 1996 to 2006. Most individuals (87.5%) used 1-2 prescribers, 1-2 pharmacies, and had no early refills (2006). The greater the number of prescribers used, the greater the number of pharmacies used. When defined as the use of >or=4 prescribers and >or=4 pharmacies, questionable activity accounted for 2748 individuals, 47 953 prescriptions, and 2 966 056 doses (2006). The Schedule II opioid most highly associated with questionable activity was short-acting oxycodone. PMPs can become a useful public health surveillance tool to monitor the medical and non-medical use of prescription opioids and to inform public health and safety policy.

Can electronic monitoring reduce crime for moderate to high-risk offenders?

Electronic monitoring (EM) of offenders has been in use for just over two decades and motives for using it remain diverse. Some agencies that use EM attempt to deliver humane and affordable sanctions while others seek to relieve jail crowding or to avoid the construction of new jails. Nonetheless, all EM programs aim to suppress the criminal behavior of offenders being monitored and its advocates have always hoped EM could be instrumental in reducing long-term recidivism. This review investigates the history of EM and the extent to which EM empirically affects criminal behavior in moderate to high-risk populations. All available recidivism studies that included at least one comparison group between the first impact study in 1986 and 2002 were considered for the review. Although variants such as GPS tracking and continuous testing for alcohol in perspiration have recently emerged, no studies of these technologies were found that met the review’s inclusion criteria. Studies are examined and combined for meta-analysis where appropriate. Given its continued and widespread use and the dearth of reliable information about its effects, the authors conclude that applications of EM as a tool for reducing crime are not supported by existing data. Properly controlled experiments would be required to draw stronger conclusions about the effects of EM.

Victim‐centric diversion? The electronic monitoring of domestic violence cases

This article discusses the electronic monitoring of domestic violence cases as a form of diversion. The data derive from a two and a half year study of two "bilateral" electronic monitoring programs geared towards domestic violence offenders, mostly defendants, and their former or current intimate partners. Analysis consists of an examination of how the programs under study manifest the aims and tensions of diversion, and highlights how a victim-centered approach to diversion can amplify the tensions of diversion.

Physician Perspectives on a Pilot Prescription Monitoring Program

In 2003, during implementation of a pilot electronic prescription monitoring program in southwest Virginia, a survey was mailed to 672 physicians to learn about their knowledge of and attitudes toward the program and its impact on their opioid prescribing behaviors. A total of 275 surveys were returned yielding a response rate of 41%. Less than one-half had previously heard about the prescription monitoring program. Nearly 60% believed their prescribing behaviors were being monitored more closely as a result of the program; of these, 23% reported that this had a negative impact on their ability to help patients manage their pain. Sixty-eight percent reported that the prescription monitoring program was useful for monitoring patients' prescription histories and decreasing “doctor shopping”; however, only 11% had requested information from the prescription monitoring program database, primarily due to access barriers.Recommendations include education to increase physician awareness of and utilization of the program and to address their concerns about scrutiny of practice and collection of relevant data that examines the impact of the program on diversion, abuse, and quality of patient care for persons in pain.

Maximizing the Value of Electronic Prescription Monitoring Programs

Diversion of controlled substances from medical to nonmedical purposes is a significant public health problem. However, there is great fear that regulatory efforts to curb this activity could have a chilling effect on appropriate and necessary pain management.To track the extent to which there is inappropriate prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances, seventeen states have adopted prescription monitoring programs. Although earlier programs relied on ink-on-paper multiple copy or serialized prescriptions, the recent trend has been the development of electronic-based programs that can link to computerized pharmacy systems. Although these programs have not been thoroughly analyzed for their safety or efficacy, there is growing enthusiasm for them. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) backs the development of state-based electronic prescription monitoring programs and a bill is pending in Congress that would create a national program.

Entrepreneurs of punishment

Privatization of corrections is problematic in large part because advocates claim that private contractors can provide the same or better services at less cost than public agencies. This article argues that there is another, even more important issue: privatization is fostered by entrepreneurs who do much more than provide alternative sources of services; they create demand for and then supply new forms of social control. Indeed, the history of modern criminal justice is to some extent the history of the success of entrepreneurs in generating new or significantly expanded forms of social control. The article examines the history of entrepreneurs in establishing transportation in the 18th century and the modern prison in the 19th, and then draws parallels to contemporary efforts to provide private prisons, ‘community-based’ juvenile facilities, and electronic monitoring programs.

Electronic Monitoring

Electronic monitoring programs were developed roughly fifteen years ago with the aim of reducing jail and prison populations. Since then, a number of issues have surfaced, some of which have been resolved in ways that have strengthened the usefulness of electronic monitoring. Others, however, remain unresolved and threaten to weaken this controversial sanction. Using a conceptual framework that can be used to evaluate most any correctional program, this paper traces the development of electronic monitoring programs in the United States and addresses the philosophical, systemic, and political issues that have surfaced. Ways to address the unresolved issues are also considered. We suggest that awareness about electronic monitoring on several levels will strengthen the utility and versatility of the sanction.

Rehabilitation in the New Machine? Exploring Drug and Alcohol Use and Variables Related to Success among DUI Offenders Under Electronic Monitoring—Some Preliminary Outcome Results

When the “Western County” (Penn.) Probation Department implemented a house arrest with electronic monitoring (EM) program in the fall of 1992, offenders convicted under the commonwealth’s mandatory driving under the influence (DUI) act were divided into two groups: One group went to jail and the other group served their sentence under house arrest with EM. Using descriptive and inferential statistics, this article examines differences in drug and alcohol consumption between the two groups and variables related to success for those in the EM program. With regard to drug and alcohol consumption, although differences did exist, they were not significant. However, using cross-tabulation tables and chi-squares, it was determined that two variables—successful attendance at treatment and employment—were significantly related to success while on EM. Such findings indicate the importance of both variables in the selection and supervision process.

A Quasi-Experimental Evaluation of an Intensive Rehabilitation Supervision Program

Over the past 20 years, an increased understanding has been developed of what interventions do and do not work with offenders. Treatment programs that attend to offender risk, needs, and responsivity factors have been associated with reduced recidivism. There is also a recognition that sanctions without a rehabilitative component are ineffective in reducing offender recidivism. This study evaluates a cognitive-behavioral treatment program delivered within the context of intensive community supervision via electronic monitoring (EM). Offenders receiving treatment while in an EM program were statistically matched on risk and needs factors to inmates who did not receive treatment services. The results showed that treatment was effective in reducing recidivism for higher risk offenders, confirming the risk principle of offender treatment. The importance of matching treatment intensity to offender risk level and ensuring that there is a treatment component in intensive supervision programs is reaffirmed.

Can Electronic Monitoring Make a Difference? An Evaluation of Three Canadian Programs

Electronic monitoring (EM) is a correctional program promising an alternative to imprisonment. The present study compared EM programs that differed in setting (corrections-based vs. court-based) and the type of supervision (custodial staff vs. probation officers). EM offenders were also compared with inmates and probationers matched for offender risk. The results showed that type of program was unrelated to program completion or recidivism and that EM had a net-widening effect. Type of supervision showed some relationship with offender and staff views of the program but, in general, EM added little value to more traditional forms of community control.

Effects of House Arrest with Electronic Monitoring on DUI Offenders

ABSTRACT The “Western” County Probation Department (PA) implemented a house arrest with electronic monitoring (EM) program in the Fall of 1992. This article provides an evaluation of the first 57 offenders who participated in this program. Offenders included in this study were all convicted of the crime of Driving Under the Influence (DUI). The Commonwealth's mandatory DUI Act provided an opportunity to study two very similar groups. The main difference between the two was that one group went to jail while the other served their sentence under house arrest with EM. Descriptive and inferential statistics revealed no statistically significant differences between the two groups with respect to rearrest, revocations, and detainers filed (technical violations). Also, the overwhelming majority of EM offenders were able to successfully complete their EM period of supervision without incident, addressing the negative claims that such programs unduly jeopardize the safety of the community. Findings indicate that house arrest with EM can be an effective alternative to jail for many DUI offenders.

Juvenile Electronic Monitoring

This article examines a number of critical questions regarding the use of electronic monitoring of juveniles in their communities. Drawing upon a follow-up study of a pilot electronic monitoring program in a large, private agency providing services to youth, as well as published evaluation studies, the author concludes the following: (a) Electronic monitoring of juveniles in their homes is positively regarded by youth and family members and does not constitute intrusion into their privacy; (b) Electronic monitoring is less costly than institutionalization of juvenile offenders; (c) Augmenting residential treatment with a treatment focused in-home electronic monitoring program offers an effective alternative to residential treatment.

A comparative analysis of three electronically monitored home detention programs

During the 1980s correctional officials focused considerable energy on the development of intermediate sanctions as alternatives to incarceration. One such alternative is electronically monitored home detention. Although the electronic monitoring equipment was not commercially available until late in 1984, programs were operating in all 50 states by 1990. This study presents a comparative analysis of three electronic monitoring programs: a program for adults charged with a criminal offense and unable to obtain pretrial release; a program designed as an alternative to incarceration for convicted adult offenders; and a program for adjudicated juvenile burglars. Each program operated in the same jurisdiction, used essentially the same equipment, and imposed similar rules and restrictions on behavior. The analysis focuses on comparisons of program delivery, clients' performance, and programmatic sources of variation. The implications of the findings for future program development and evaluation are discussed.

A Survey of Juvenile Electronic Monitoring and Home Confinement Programs

Juvenile and Family Court JournalVolume 40, Issue 4 p. 1-36 A Survey of Juvenile Electronic Monitoring and Home Confinement Programs Joseph B. Vaughn Ph.D., Corresponding Author Joseph B. Vaughn Ph.D.Joseph B. Vaughn, Ph.D., Center for Criminal Justice Research Central Missouri State University Warrensburg, MO 64093Search for more papers by this author Joseph B. Vaughn Ph.D., Corresponding Author Joseph B. Vaughn Ph.D.Joseph B. Vaughn, Ph.D., Center for Criminal Justice Research Central Missouri State University Warrensburg, MO 64093Search for more papers by this author First published: November 1989 https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1755-6988.1989.tb00661.xCitations: 4AboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat Citing Literature Volume40, Issue4November 1989Pages 1-36 RelatedInformation