Electronics Device Recruited in Battle on Stalker Attack

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.