How Electronic Monitoring Impacts Your Release in Minnesota: What You Should Know
Electronic monitoring has become a common condition of release for individuals released from custody and awaiting trial. There are two common forms of electronic monitoring in Minnesota: (1) electronic alcohol monitoring and (2) electronic home monitoring. In this blog post, we will explain these forms of electronic monitoring, why it may be imposed as a condition of release, and how posting a bond can provide an avenue to remove this condition of release.
Forms of Electronic Monitoring:
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Electronic alcohol monitoring involves the use of a remote breathalyzer while released from custody. Applies to individuals facing alcohol-related charges or charges stemming from alcohol use in Minnesota. These devices require individuals to regularly submit breath samples to confirm abstinence from alcohol. This condition typically includes submitting four breath samples per day at certain times throughout the day.
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In MN, electronic home monitoring, also known as EHM, commonly includes the use of an ankle bracelet equipped with GPS technology. This type of monitoring allows authorities to track a defendant’s location in real-time, ensuring compliance with court-ordered home confinement. When EHM is imposed, the individual is required to stay within their residence and typically may only leave for four hours per week.
Purpose of Electronic Monitoring:
The purpose of electronic monitoring as a condition of release in Minnesota is to balance the rights of the accused with the need to ensure public safety and guarantee the individual's appearance in court. Monitoring is often imposed by the court to enhance supervision and accountability for individuals who have been granted release from custody. Electronic monitoring may be imposed as a condition of release for many reasons, including the following:
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The severity and nature of the alleged offense can influence a judge’s decision to impose electronic monitoring. For more serious charges, particularly those involving violence, the judge may be more likely to impose electronic home monitoring. Electronic alcohol monitoring is commonly imposed as a condition of release in DWI cases and cases alleged to have been committed while under the influence of alcohol.
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The risk of flight is a factor that is more commonly considered when deciding to impose an electronic home monitoring requirement. If a person lives out of state or has a history of failing to appear in court, the judge is more likely to impose an electronic home monitoring requirement in order to track their location.
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A MN judge may also impose electronic monitoring requirements to ensure community safety. For example, electronic home monitoring may be imposed if the judge believes it is necessary to restrict the defendant's movements and prevent them from engaging in activities that may pose a threat to public safety. Similarly, electronic alcohol monitoring may be imposed to protect the community from drinking and driving concerns, for example.
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If other conditions of release are imposed, a Minnesota judge may also require electronic monitoring to ensure compliance with these conditions. For example, if an individual’s conditions include no use of alcohol, a judge may also order electronic alcohol monitoring to ensure compliance with this condition. Similarly, if a judge imposes a no contact order with an individual, for example, or a requirement that the defendant must stay a certain distance away from that individual’s home/workplace, electronic home monitoring may be imposed to assure compliance with those conditions.
Removing Electronic Monitoring as a Condition of Release:
Electronic monitoring can be expensive, time consuming, and quite simply annoying. In most cases, you are required to pay for your electronic monitoring, which may become very expensive over time. This is especially true if your case doesn’t resolve right away. If electronic alcohol monitoring is imposed in your Minnesota court case, you may have to wake up at very early hours to submit a breath test or you may be required to submit tests while at work, in front of colleagues. When it comes to electronic home monitoring, you will have very little time to leave your home, which will have a lasting affect on your job and daily life. On top of all of this, if you violate the conditions of electronic home monitoring, a warrant may be issued for your arrest and you may be required to go back to jail. The good news is that you will have an option to avoid electronic monitoring, if an unconditional bail is set in your case. Learn more about the differences between conditional and unconditional bail here. In sum, conditional bail is set at a lower monetary value than unconditional bail. However, with conditional bail a set of conditions will be imposed pending the resolution of your case, which may include electronic monitoring. In order to remove electronic monitoring as a condition of your release, you will need to post bond on an unconditional bail. By posting unconditional bail, you will eliminate your conditions of release and will merely be required to remain law abiding and show up to your court appearances. Metro Bail Bonds is available 24/7 to post your unconditional bond if you are tired of dealing with electronic monitoring. Give us a call today!
Bail bondsmen in Minnesota play a key role in helping individuals navigate the complexities of release conditions, including electronic monitoring. By understanding the reasons behind electronic monitoring and the role of bail bonds, individuals can take proactive steps to secure their release while complying with court orders. If you find yourself facing electronic monitoring as a condition of release, consulting with a reputable bail bond agent can be a crucial step towards regaining your freedom. Give us a call today to learn more!
