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GPS-Enabled Criminals In Massachusetts

Posted by timothy on from the don't-worry-you'll-get-one-too dept.

Fun at LinuxWorld writes "Following on the heels of California's plan to put GPS receivers in cars, Massachusetts wants to fit criminals who violation restraining orders with GPS devices. Wearing the device would be a condition of probation (meaning you can refuse, but then you get to serve your time in jail), and fines and punishments would be imposed if the person entered "restricted zones" (under the terms of the restraining order). With all the reports of GPS being used to restrict the rights of innocent people, is this any better? Will it fix the problem?"

2 of 565 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Appropriate use by kdark1701 · · Score: 5, Interesting

    I'm not sure how it is in Massechuses (sp?), but here in Michigan, one can get a restraining order with no proof. The accused can get the order revoked, but its a pain in the ass. More often than not, it degenerates into a "his word against hers" type of case.

  2. Re:Appropriate use by n1ywb · · Score: 5, Interesting

    You'll note the devices would be for people who have already violated the restraining order. Restraining orders are easy to get in most states, they're also easy for the defendant to not violate them. Don't screw up, don't get a tracking device. Simple.

    --
    -73, de n1ywb
    www.n1ywb.com