This study describes an evaluation of a two-year trial of bi-lateral (perpetrator and victim) electronic monitoring (EM) of high-risk family violence (FV) perpetrators in an Australian jurisdiction. This project was a multiagency collaboration between Police and the Department of Justice and involved the creation of a locally based monitoring centre. Observations of key activities, such as fitting of devices, court proceedings, and multiagency meetings, were conducted throughout the project to assess progress. Semi structured interviews (n=49) were conducted with key stakeholders and a sample of victims and offenders. Key themes emerging from the analysis were: 1. Local monitoring is working well 2. Offenders were largely compliant 3. There was a reduction in both frequency and seriousness of offending4. Victims reported feeling safer5. Both offenders and victims needed short term support services in conjunction with EM. However, offenders expressed a preference for custodial options and whilst short term offending has been positive, a longer-term study is required to monitor enduring behaviour change.
Funding
Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management [TAS]
History
Publication title
Police Science: Australia and New Zealand Society of Evidence Based Policing
Volume
6
Pagination
51-58
ISSN
2206-5202
Department/School
School of Social Sciences
Publisher
ZODIAC Media
Place of publication
Melbourne, Australia
Repository Status
Restricted
Socio-economic Objectives
Violence and abuse services; Public services policy advice and analysis