The latest twist in electronic surveillance uses satellites to track convicted criminals anywhere in the world. Jim Cerda works in Pro Tech Monitoring's data center in Palm Harbor.
Offenders wear an ankle bracelet that constantly broadcasts their location.
Victims can be issued a portable unit. They are among the first to be electronically monitored by a satellite-based system developed by Pro Tech Monitoring Inc. of Palm Harbor. From a criminal justice standpoint, the system gives authorities more control and information about an offender's whereabouts than current systems. If that person leaves certain areas, alarms go off and authorities, and sometimes victims, are notified. Competing systems are more limited, covering about 12 hours a day and sounding an alarm if an offender leaves a house.