We continue our weekly look at every recomendation made by the jury at the Renfrew Inquest into ending intimate partner violence (or IPV) in Ontario.
Recommendation 48 says the province must
Explore the implementation of electronic monitoring to enable the tracking of those charged or found guilty of an IPV-related offence and enable the notification of authorities and survivors if the individual enters a prohibited area relating to a survivor. In determining the appropriateness of such a tool in Ontario, monitor the development of programs utilizing such technology in other provinces, with specific consideration given to:
a. Coverage of cellular networks, particularly in remote and rural regions,
b. Storage rules and protocols for tracking data,
c. Appropriate perpetrator programs and supports needed to accompany electronic monitoring,
d. Whether the tool exacerbates risk factors and contributes to recidivism,
e. Understanding any impacts after an order for such technology expires,
f. Frequency and impact of false alarms,
g. The appropriateness of essential services being provided by private, for-profit partners.
Lanark County Interval House Executive Director Erin Lee says this is a recommendation that has been on the table a long time, and it needs to be well thought out.
Lee testified at the inquest. She says the move could be part of a larger approach involving, among other things, supports for victims and programs for abusers.
You can listen to the complete interview with Erin Lee by pressing play below.