Electronic Monitoring For Domestic Violence Defendants

On July 1, 2026, several new laws came into effect in Florida, including a regulation known before as HB 277. HB 277 makes changes to the state’s existing domestic violence laws, with the most notable alteration being the introduction of pilot programs in Pasco and Pinellas Counties to institute electric monitoring for certain people charged with domestic violence.

This has proven somewhat controversial, with some arguing the measure makes survivors safer, and some arguing that it infringes upon the dignity of people who have not been convicted of a crime.

All About Survivor Safety

These few past years, Florida has made changes to its laws surrounding domestic violence crimes, with a particular focus on survivor safety. In 2024, the Gabby Petito Act was passed, requiring law enforcement to complete a lethality assessment when handling domestic dispute calls, which essentially creates a paper trail for future investigators to follow if ever needed. Now this law, referred to as the Domestic Violence & Protective Injunctions Act, increases relocation assistance for survivors and allows survivors of domestic and dating violence to have their address obscured on state documents.

The pilot program for electronic monitoring is phrased as a measure to increase survivor safety as well. The program does not automatically force electronic monitoring on everyone ever arrested for domestic violence crimes; rather, monitoring can only be ordered “as a condition of probation,” where a defendant is subject to a no-contact order. In addition, if a court finds that there is ‘clear and convincing evidence’ that the defendant poses a threat to the victim, monitoring must be ordered.

The Least Restrictive Alternative

As this law comes into effect, some advocates are speaking out against electronic monitoring in general, pointing out the fact that a defendant has not been convicted of anything before having to submit to such an invasion of privacy – and on top of that, the cost of monitoring is usually borne by the defendant. That said, it is important to keep in mind that the law requires a defendant to face the least restrictive alternative that will accomplish what is sought – for example, a defendant who has made threats against their former spouse is a good candidate for monitoring, as it will likely keep them from doing so again.

In addition, multiple studies have shown that electronic monitoring, as opposed to blanket prison sentences, tends to significantly reduce the likelihood of reoffending, though the studies done in the United States tend to center on non-violent offenders. Still, if there is a chance to help an individual avoid recidivism, it is seen as better to attempt it. It remains to be seen if the pilot programs will help in Florida, but it does appear that at least for their scheduled shelf life, those programs are here to stay.

Contact A West Palm Beach Domestic Violence Attorney

If you have been accused of domestic violence crimes in Florida, it is true that you might be subject to electronic monitoring. However, the right attorney may be able to help with your case. A West Palm Beach criminal defense attorney from Perlet & Shiner, P.A. have handled many of these types of cases, and will work hard on yours. Call our office today to speak to an attorney.

Source:

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