An Electronic Monitor (EM) is a GPS tracking unit that is used as a court-ordered diversion for short-term out of home placement in a non-secure setting or secure detention facility. The purpose of this program is to safely maintain and monitor youth in their own homes and communities. Youth remain in their residence unless preapproved for school, work, and other specific appointments.
Program rules are shared with the youth and family at the time the monitor is installed. While on EM, youth are contacted regularly by Youth Justice staff. Violations are reported to Youth Justice staff for review.
Parents are responsible for paying a daily EM fee. Under Wisconsin law, individuals receiving services through Columbia County Department of Health and Human Services are responsible for the cost of their care. Other responsible persons are an individual’s spouse and the parents of a minor child. The basic approach to funding services in Wisconsin is: 1) your own income and resources; 2) parental support, if the individual is a minor; 3) State grants; and 4) county funds. Columbia County Department of Health and Human Services will request reimbursement from the parent and/or guardian of the child for the cost accrued following use of Electronic Monitoring. Information regarding a payment plan will be shared with the parent and/or guardian.
The estimated costs are $6.20 per day. Additional costs may be incurred if the unit is damaged or broken. Columbia County contracts with JusticePoint for EM equipment rental and uses Attenti Group for unit monitoring.