Relating to electronic monitoring as a required condition of community supervision and parole for certain violent offenders.
Impact
The bill mandates that any defendant placed on community supervision for violent offenses must submit to electronic monitoring for no less than one year. Additionally, it provides stipulations that require releasees under parole to similarly comply with electronic tracking. Both groups will also need to refrain from tampering with the monitoring equipment and, unless proven indigent, pay the costs associated with the electronic monitoring services. This could mean significant changes in how the criminal justice system supervises individuals transitioning back into society.
Summary
House Bill 3355 is focused on implementing mandatory electronic monitoring as a condition of community supervision and parole for certain violent offenders in Texas. Under this proposed legislation, judges will be required to enforce electronic monitoring for defendants found guilty of violent crimes, as categorized under the specified sections of the Code of Criminal Procedure. This measure aims to increase public safety by ensuring that violent offenders are tracked throughout their supervised release period.
Contention
While proponents argue that HB3355 enhances safety measures and accountability for violent offenders, there are concerns regarding the balance of punitive and rehabilitative approaches in criminal justice policy. The imposition of electronic monitoring, including its costs and potential impacts on the treatment of indigent offenders, has raised questions about fairness and the effectiveness of such measures in deterring future crimes. Critics may also argue that excessive monitoring could infringe on personal freedoms and necessary support during reintegration into the community.
Relating to jury instructions regarding parole eligibility, to certain conditions of bail and community supervision, and to the early termination of community supervision and the dismissal and discharge of deferred adjudication community supervision.
Relating to the execution of a warrant issued for certain releasees who violate a condition of parole or mandatory supervision related to the electronic monitoring of the releasee.
Relating to the prosecution of the offenses of indecency with a child and sexual assault and to a child safety zone applicable to a person on community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision for certain sexual offenses.
Relating to certain requirements of protective orders and conditions of release on bond and to the criminal penalties for violating those requirements and conditions.