Intermediate Punishment Research Paper

Intermediate punishments are community based programs that can include intensive probation
supervision to non-secure residential programs. Intermediate punishment programs are more
intensive monitoring or management of juveniles through strict supervision. Some of these
programs are, special probation, residential programs, electronic house arrest, intensive
supervision, day reporting centers, and drug treatments. There are other types of treatment for
those that are more at risk, such as, group homes and detention centers. These days home
confinement has many options, although, they are all similar in some way or another. One type
of electronic monitoring is continuous signal device, which consist of a small transmitter
strapped to the offender’s

wrist. The transmitter puts out signal that is received by a receiver
dialer in the home of the offender. That signal is then carried by a central receiver. Another, is
the programmed contact device. This device is designed to call the offenders home at various
hours to ensure the offender is where they should be. Once, they call the offender should then put
the wrist device into the telephone equipment so their voice and signal is verified through the
computer. A device called GPS is also used to monitor offenders. The equipment used for this
device is a transmitter, tracking device, and a charging station. It connects to the offender’s
telephone line and keeps track of them 24 hours a day. Electronic monitoring should allow
probation officers to keep track of the offender always. Most people on house arrest can work, go
to school, complete community service, or whatever else their probation officers find is
appropriate while on probation. I can relate to this, I was once on house arrest for 60 days.
During, that time I was only allowed to visit my probation officer and doctors’ appointments. I
remember very well one day the box that was connected to the telephone was accidently
unplugged, someone called to tell me there wasn’t any signal coming from my device. By
experience I know this can work to benefit the probation officer, as well as, keep the offender
from returning to jail. But, sadly I also have witness some remove the device, which resulted in
them being imprisoned. Electronic monitoring allows the probation officer to spend more time
on others, especially if they have a large caseload.