The monthly cost of electronically monitored home confinement varies significantly based on several factors. These include the jurisdiction where the sentence is served, the specific monitoring technology used (GPS ankle bracelet, breathalyzer, etc.), the length of the confinement period, and whether the individual is required to pay for the monitoring services themselves. For example, fees can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars per month. This cost typically covers equipment rental, installation, monitoring services, and any associated administrative fees.
Affordability is a critical aspect of home confinement programs. While it offers a potential cost saving to the justice system compared to incarceration, the financial burden placed on individuals can create hardships. Understanding the full range of potential costs is crucial for both those facing home confinement and policymakers seeking to implement effective and equitable community-based sanctions. Historically, such programs were less technologically advanced and less expensive, but as technology has evolved, so too have the associated costs.
