The Changing Role of Probation - Coursework Example

Nonprofit Organization Affiliation The Changing Role of Probation The notion of attaching GPS trackers on the wrists of juvenile delinquents rather than sending them to juvenile institutions has become a common practice in most of the developed world. This practice has been motivated by the need for states to save money since juvenile facilities are expensive. In addition, a large number of juvenile delinquents are realizing that GPS tracking devices are providing them with freedom to undertake their daily activities freely (Hess & Orthmann, 2011).

When a teenager wears the GPS bracelet, he can participate in various activities such as sporting events, attend school, and other normal undertakings without being scolded. However, in case a juvenile delinquent is confined in a detention center, he or she loses all sorts of teenage formalities. Additionally, teenagers encounter challenges while catching up with their education after they are released from detention centers. They deem it nonessential to go back to school. As such, it is true that GPS trackers play a vital role with regard to allowing teens to participate in normal life activities freely (Hess & Orthmann, 2011).

On the contrary, various concerns have been raised about the effects GPS tracking devices on the offender’s privacy rights. Some experts stipulate that the GPS tracking technology creates a situation where the offender’s home serves as his prison. However, others fear that prevalent use of GPS tracking systems could result to a society there government authorities strictly monitor the movement of the citizens. However, these concerns are rarely discussed because GPS tracking is imposed with full consent of the participant.

Therefore, it is true that GPS devices to not violate privacy rights of juvenile delinquents (Hess & Orthmann, 2011). Reference Hess, K., & Orthmann, H. C. (2011). Introduction to Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice. New York: Cengage Learning.