the Chief Public Prosecutor and the director of the SRJA (Stichting Reclassering en Jeugdbescherming Aruba – Foundation for Probation and Youth Protection Aruba) signed an agreement for the pilot project titled ‘Electronic Surveillance during suspension of pretrial detention’. Electronic Surveillance (ET) is commonly known among the public as an ankle monitor (enkelband).
The pilot project targets youth between the ages of 12 and 23 and will commence this coming July 1st. Electronic Surveillance will not apply to all young suspects, but uniquely to those whose pretrial detention can be suspended following advice from the Probation Service. Only in such cases can a judge impose Electronic Surveillance as a condition to suspend a suspect’s detention, upon request of the Public Prosecutor’s Office. It consists of a form of supervision in which digital equipment is used to monitor whether a suspect adheres to the conditions imposed upon them, while awaiting their trial in liberty.
Through this pilot project, authorities can assess whether Electronic Surveillance can help in relevant cases to limit the negative consequences that detention can have on a young suspect. In this way, a youth can—as far as possible—continue going to school, work their job, or receive guidance, while simultaneously monitoring whether they comply with the conditions imposed upon them and guaranteeing the protection of the community.
The Probation Service is tasked with monitoring whether the suspect complies with the conditions. They report directly to the Public Prosecutor’s Office. If a suspect violates any of their conditions, the Probation Service will report this immediately. The Public Prosecutor’s Office can then decide to request the judge to terminate the youth’s Electronic Surveillance.
Electronic Surveillance is an intrusive measure that significantly restricts a person’s private life and freedom of movement. During the period of electronic supervision, the suspect must remain home at the registered address, with the exception of pre-arranged times, such as when they leave to go to school or work. Additional conditions may also apply, such as the youth having to report to the Probation Service, complying with a restraining order, or an obligation to undergo treatment for their issues.
On February 1, 2027, this pilot project will be evaluated to see how it progressed.