Manitoba relaunches ankle monitors for bail supervision

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The Manitoba government has introduced a new electronic monitoring program to improve supervision of individuals released on bail, Justice Minister Matt Wiebe announced Wednesday.

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The program will use 24/7 GPS monitoring to track offenders and ensure they comply with bail conditions. The ankle monitors employ GPS technology, voice, audio, and vibration commands to manage offenders and provide real-time alerts if they enter restricted areas.

“Whether it’s a family whose garage has been broken into or a small business dealing with shoplifters, we know the impact crime is having in communities across our province,” said Wiebe in a release. “When the courts decide to release an individual on bail, electronic monitoring is a tool that can be used to ensure they are following the conditions of their release and prevent the type of chronic, repeat offending that is so frustrating and damaging to public safety.”

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Acting Chief Arthur Stannard of the Winnipeg Police Service expressed concern over the number of individuals breaching release conditions.

“Twenty per cent of arrested persons in Winnipeg are on bail, probation, or parole and more than 80% of the arrests by the Manitoba Integrated Violent Offender Apprehension Unit involve persons who are on some type of release. These are alarming numbers,” said Stannard. “We are hopeful that this tool will help hold people accountable to their release conditions. The public expects this.”

The GPS technology will allow detailed tracking of court-ordered conditions, including restrictions on entering specific locations. The program is part of broader efforts to tackle retail crime and enhance community safety.

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“The Retail Council of Canada applauds this additional step being taken by the Manitoba government in its ongoing efforts to combat retail crime and enhance public safety,” said Rui Rodrigues, executive advisor, loss prevention and risk management, Retail Council of Canada. “Repeat, prolific and often violent offenders are a major concern to many businesses and having those same offenders released and returning to the same businesses day after day to reoffend is disheartening. This program adds another layer that will hopefully reduce recidivism and is both appreciated and welcomed.”

The Manitoba government has allocated $2.9 million over two years for the program. If successful, the program may continue beyond the initial period, according to Wiebe.

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