Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Is Tech The Solution To Our Prison Problem?

This week, we reported on a newly-released federal Request for Applications (RFA) seeking the development of a remote continuous monitoring system to detect cocaine use in ambulatory patients (Feds Seek Invention of Remote Monitoring System for Detecting Cocaine Ingestion/Intoxication premium members). The RFA specifies that remote measurement is the main priority, and that the systems can include any behavioral, biological, or psychophysiological measurement devices, or combination of devices.

I found this story fascinating because it is one many innovations that will alter the intersection of behavioral health care with the criminal justice system. A few of the tech interventions that we’ve reported on include:

• Massachusetts Probation Service Says GPS Monitoring Costs 90% Less Than Jail premium members

• Forecasting Tool Helps Philadelphia Adult Probation & Parole Department Identify High-Risk Offenders premium members

• iSECUREtrac GPS Offender Monitoring Devices Selected for Use in Maine, Uses Expanded in New York & New Jersey Counties premium members

• Hale County, Texas Uses GPS Monitoring for Juveniles & Finds It More Accurate & Less Costly Than Other Alternatives premium members

At a time when many states are planning to release incarcerated individuals earlier due to budget constraints, these technologies—and the organizations that learn to use them—can offer new options that address both the cost and the public safety issues. These new technologies can supplement the diversion efforts of the current mental health and drug court initiatives – and enhance the ability to assure public safety in probation and parole situations.

Sincerely,
Monica E. Oss
Chief Executive Officer, OPEN MINDS

Back to top

To read more, see: Complications in the Current Corrections Mess all members 

This is free for the next sixty days to all registered OPEN MINDS Circle members.

Back to top