Electronics Device Recruited in Battle on Stalker Attack
- Share via
LITTLETON, Colo. — With domestic violence increasing, authorities are experimenting with an electronic system that sets off an alarm when a stalker approaches his victim.
Under a three-month program adopted by Arapahoe County, a known offender wears an electronic ankle bracelet that triggers an alarm if he goes near the person he is accused of harassing.
The alarm sounds on a receiver near the victim and a simultaneous signal goes to a communication center, which alerts police. The victim has a “panic button” on the receiver if the abuser disconnects the bracelet before coming near her.
The first offender was fitted with a bracelet last week, said District Attorney Robert Gallagher.
The program is limited to domestic violence situations. Offenders are given the options both at pretrial hearings and upon conviction of wearing the bracelet, going to jail or posting bond.
An increase in stalking incidents, with often tragic consequences, has spurred authorities to try new approaches.
Anti-stalking bills also have been enacted in other states.
Activists hail Arapahoe County’s fledgling bracelet program as a behavior modification tool.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
More From the Los Angeles Times
Podcasts
John Orr was a renowned fire investigator who was also a prolific arsonist, and whose thinly veiled novel helped to convict him. In this episode we hear from the fire captain who first suspected him—and from Orr himself.
Tom Girardi was a legal legend—until he was found guilty of stealing millions from his own clients. Host Madison McGhee and pop culture commentator Kiki Monique unpack how his downfall became a Real Housewives scandal, and what Erika Jayne may or may not have known. Plus, L.A. Times reporter Harriet Ryan joins to share how she helped bring Girardi’s crimes to light.
Sammy Roth visits America’s second-largest nuclear plant, Arizona’s Palo Verde Generating Station, and sits down with three experts to explore the pros and cons of atomic energy.
