Advantages of EM Programs
Communities’ Financial Savings
Electronic monitoring can save tax-payers, detention facilities, and adjudicated juveniles’ money. For instance, EM programs help reduce the number of juvenile offenders who are placed in residential facilities. Financially, this makes a considerable difference as EM programs can range anywhere from $5.50 to $10 per day whereas detention centers can range from $100 to $160 per day. After adopting an EM program in one county, the number of juveniles in detention centers decreased from 94 per day in 2003 to 45 per day – a 53% decrease. Moreover, the public’s tax burden is reduced as offenders are allowed to work and subsequently pay for the EM costs. EM programs can save the juvenile money as well; upon adjudication, a bond may be reduced if the juvenile agrees to submit to electronic monitoring.