Repeat offenders on bail in Alberta could be subject to GPS ankle monitoring under new program

High-risk and repeat offenders in Alberta will be monitored by ankle bracelets starting Wednesday, in a program the province claims will address the gaps left by Canada’s “problematic bail system.”

The province says through this program, offenders and accused who pose a public safety risk may now be subject to 24/7 court-ordered electronic monitoring by Alberta Correctional Services as part of their community supervision conditions.

Individuals under a court-ordered electronic monitoring condition will be required to wear a GPS tracking device by a new unit within Alberta Correctional Services.

This move was one of many measures announced last year as part of the Public Safety Statutes Amendments Act.

“Ottawa’s Bill C-75 has broken the bail system. We are taking an important step toward combating rising crime. High-risk offenders pose a significant risk to public safety and require enhanced supervision in the community,” said Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services, Mike Ellis. “As government, it’s our duty to protect Albertans and their communities. Ankle bracelet electronic monitoring is another tool in the toolbox for courts to consider when determining sentencing or bail conditions, helping us combat rising crime and create safer Alberta communities.”

The government says ankle bracelet electronic monitoring will protect Albertans and communities by helping to secure offender-restricted areas, such as victims’ homes, workplaces, or any other place deemed off limits based on bail conditions.

Probation officers will continue to supervise those under provincial community-based court conditions and bail supervision. The province said previously, this supervision occurred mostly during regular business hours and didn’t involve the use of GPS electronic monitoring ankle bracelets.

In the inaugural 2024-25 year, Alberta is paying $2.8 million for program implementation.

The estimated end date for the electronic monitoring vendor contract with SCRAM Systems is March 31, 2029.

Alberta has been explicit in it’s frustration with Canada’s bail system, describing the policy as “catch-and-release.”

“Alberta’s government continues to call for federal bail and sentencing reform to stop violent criminals from re-entering our communities,” Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Mickey Amery. “We remain committed to prioritizing the safety of Albertans through measures like the use of ankle monitors, strengthening the Crown Prosecution Service, the courts and policing to protect Albertans from violent criminals.”

The introduction of GPS monitoring on repeat and at-risk offenders puts Alberta in line with other programs in other provinces across the country.