Global Positioning System Integration Project

The Congressionally Selected Awards Program, authorized by the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 (Pub. L. 111-8), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects selected by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-8, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 09 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act.

The Rhode Island Justice Assistance (RIJA) will support the Global Positioning System Integration Project. RIJA will use funds for personnel and consultants responsible for the design and implementation of the project. RIJA will implement the use of an integrated Global Positioning System for real-time monitoring of criminal offenders. Individuals targeted to be monitored include pedophiles, offenders on house arrest, awaiting trial and under restraining orders. Project activities will include completing a technological and engineering pre-design requirements gathering, business plan, and technology integration feasibility opinion. RIJC will coordinate training needs for court, law enforcement, and correctional personnel. Thee goal is to demonstrate that individuals can be securely monitored avoiding expensive incarceration, a savings opportunity for state budgets.

NCA/NCF