Crime, Latvia, Legislation, Society, Technology

One of the goals of the electronic tagging system is to facilitate ex-convicts' integration in society and re-socialization of ex-cons, explained Papsujevics. The other goals include reducing the number of inmates and the average duration of a prison sentence. Electronic tagging will apply to less-dangerous criminals, he said.

Electronic tagging will not be targeted at a particular – in fact, it could apply to any, provided that he or she has served the minimum sentence, attained certain results in re-socialization, and that the person agrees to all conditions of the electronic tagging system, said Papsujevics.

The criteria for persons who wish to apply for electronic tagging will be rigid. Papsujevics stressed. In mid-August, the first ex-convict in Latvia could receive an electronic monitoring device.

The total number of ex-convicts covered by the electronic tagging system could be around 200, and the number could increase to 750 up to 1,000 in five years.

One of the main criteria for the electronic tagging to work is mobile coverage and availability of electricity.

The electronic monitoring devices will be supplied by SuperCom Ltd. A representative from the company who participated in today's press conference informed reporters about how the devices work, explaining that each device had a GPS chip so the wearer could be traced.

An individual schedule will be drawn up and entered into the monitoring system for every wearer. The devices will be worn on the leg. The device's battery will have a three-year lifetime.

Previously the Procurement Monitoring Bureau authorized the Probation Service to sign a contract for the use of electronic monitoring devices on ex-convicts. The development of the electronic tagging system is under way at the moment.

Convicts' applications for electronic monitoring devices have been accepted from July 1.

The system was originally to be put into use on July 1 this year. Ex-convicts who participate in the system would spend part of their sentences in jail and the other part in society. Each monitoring device has a transmitter that notifies the authority in charge if the person leaves the area where he/she is confined.