The Government of Alberta has proposed a new system where high-risk offenders could be equipped with ankle bracelet monitors while out on bail. (Photo: Luckyuran | Dreamstime.com)

By David Opinko

Ankle bracelet monitoring program for high-risk offenders proposed in Alberta

Mar 13, 2024 | 2:14 PM

The Government of Alberta looks to create a new system that is aimed at better monitoring high-risk offenders who are out on bail.

The Public Safety Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, was introduced into the legislature on Wednesday, March 13, 2024.

If passed, it would require those who are on a court-ordered electronic monitoring condition to wear a GPS tracking device on their ankle. The device would be monitored around-the-clock by Alberta Correctional Services.

Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis said it happens far too often where criminals are released from custody shortly after being charged, only to commit more crimes or violate their bail conditions.

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He believes the ankle bracelet monitoring system would protect Albertans by securing offender-restricted areas, such as the homes of victims, places of employment, or other areas deemed to be off-limits as part of their bail or community-release conditions.

“The federal government’s bail policies are failing to keep people safe. We are taking an important step toward combatting rising crime, creating safer streets and neighbourhoods and protecting our communities,” said Ellis. “Ankle bracelet electronic monitoring is another tool in the toolbox for courts to hold high-risk and repeat offenders accountable for their actions while out on bail.”

Currently, people who are subject to community-based court conditions and bail supervision are monitored by staff within Correctional Services, but it is primarily within regular business hours.

If the Act is approved, high-risk offenders would receive 24/7 monitoring.

The province has allocated $5.25 million to purchase and implement the ankle bracelet monitors.