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Ankle bracelet monitoring a testament to Alberta building safer communities: Lovely

Opinion
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MLA Jackie Lovely. (Photo submitted)

Alberta’s electronic monitoring ankle bracelet program officially became operational, marking a significant step forward in enhancing public safety and protecting vulnerable individuals. This program reflects the Alberta government’s firm commitment to keeping families and communities safe, which is the most important function of government.
 
The introduction of this program stems from the pressing need to address the federal government’s catch-and-release policies that have allowed high-risk and violent offenders to remain on bail, often endangering Albertans. Last year, our government passed legislation to implement ankle bracelet electronic monitoring for these offenders, ensuring greater community accountability and security. With this program now active, families, victims of crime, and communities can experience more peace of mind, knowing that repeat offenders who pose a danger to society will be monitored 24/7.
 
The ankle bracelet electronic monitoring program is a powerful tool designed to protect vulnerable Albertans. It helps secure offender-restricted areas such as victims’ residences, places of employment, or other locations deemed off-limits as part of an individual’s bail or community release conditions. By enabling precise tracking and monitoring, the program ensures that offenders adhere to their restrictions and provides an added layer of safety for victims and communities.
 
For the courts, this program offers a valuable additional resource when determining bail conditions or sentencing. The ability to monitor repeat offenders more closely strengthens the justice system’s ability to manage high-risk individuals effectively while maintaining the balance between public safety and judicial fairness.
 
Our government’s investment in this program highlights its seriousness in addressing public safety concerns. At $2.8 million for the 2024-25 fiscal year, the program has been meticulously planned and executed. Extensive stakeholder and community engagements were conducted to ensure the program addresses the needs and concerns of Albertans. Additionally, an open vendor procurement process and comprehensive privacy and security reviews of the chosen ankle bracelet technology were carried out to ensure the program’s reliability and effectiveness.
 
Our government recognizes that public safety is not only about enforcement but also about providing innovative solutions to complex challenges. The ankle bracelet electronic monitoring program represents one such solution, enhancing the safety of communities while respecting individual rights and judicial processes. By implementing this program, Alberta has set a new standard for proactive and responsible public safety measures.
 
The operationalization of this program is a clear demonstration of our government’s commitment to standing up for law-abiding citizens and ensuring that justice is served.

Victims of crime can now feel more secure knowing that offenders are being closely monitored, and communities can rest assured that measures are in place to prevent further harm.

This milestone is a positive step forward for Alberta, signalling a future where families and communities are better protected from those who seek to do harm. The ankle bracelet electronic monitoring program is not just a technological advancement; it is a testament to Alberta’s dedication to building a safer and more secure province for all.

-- MLA Jackie Lovely can be contacted at her constituency office located at #104, 4870 51 Street, Camrose AB, T4V 1S1, or by telephone at 780-672-0000.