Electronic monitoring (EM) via an ankle bracelet is a method to check whether a convicted person complies with location obligations or prohibitions. This is often used in conditional release or as an alternative to imprisonment in the Zoetermeer region.
What does electronic monitoring entail?
In electronic monitoring, the convicted person wears an ankle bracelet with GPS technology that tracks their location. This allows verification of whether they comply with the rules, such as staying home or avoiding certain areas.
When is EM deployed?
- During suspension of pre-trial detention
- In conditional release
- As a special condition in a conditional sentence
- In the final phase of detention (penitentiary program)
- In a location ban as imposed measure
Types of monitoring
- House arrest - The convicted person must stay home at fixed times
- Location ban - It is prohibited to enter specific areas
- Location obligation - The convicted person must be at a specific location
How does it work?
The ankle bracelet is connected to a central system. If the conditions are violated, such as entering a prohibited area or removing the bracelet, the probation service or police receives an immediate alert.
Consequences for violation
If the conditions are not complied with, the following may occur:
- Suspension is revoked (return to detention)
- A conditional sentence is executed anyway
- Conditional release is revoked
Duration of the monitoring
The period of electronic monitoring varies from a few weeks to years, depending on the imposed measure and the situation in Zoetermeer.
Frequently asked questions about ankle bracelets in Zoetermeer
Can I work or go shopping with an ankle bracelet?
Yes, provided this has been previously agreed with the probation service or judge. A schedule is drawn up stating when you must be home and when you may engage in activities such as work or shopping. Non-compliance may be considered a violation.
What if my ankle bracelet malfunctions or gets damaged?
Contact the responsible authority immediately, usually the probation service. They determine whether it is a technical issue or intentional. If intentional, it may have consequences; if defective, you often receive a replacement bracelet.
May I go on vacation or visit family abroad with an ankle bracelet?
No, this is generally not permitted unless explicitly approved by the judge or probation service. Electronic monitoring is often limited to the Netherlands or a specific area. Always request permission to avoid problems.
How is compliance with the ankle bracelet rules verified?
The ankle bracelet continuously sends location data to a central system. In case of violations, such as entering prohibited zones, an alert is sent to the probation service or police. Sometimes a control visit is carried out or your location is verified by phone.
What happens in case of violation of the ankle bracelet conditions?
A violation can lead to serious consequences, such as return to prison, conversion of a conditional sentence to detention, or revocation of conditional release. The judge determines the final sanction.
Contact and support in Zoetermeer
For questions or legal assistance regarding electronic monitoring, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. Cases are often handled by the Rechtbank Den Haag, under which Zoetermeer falls.