No takers so far for Judiciary’s electronic monitoring program

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These electronic monitors are used to keep tabs on pre-trial release defendants to ensure the community's safety. But so far, there have been no takers.

The Judiciary of Guam rolled out its Electronic Monitoring Program as a means to keep tabs on pre-trial release defendants to ensure the community’s safety.

But with a slashed budget of a million dollars for fiscal year 2020, the contract will be axed once the funding runs out.

Judiciary Spokesman Shawn Gumataotao said the reduction on the Judiciary’s budget will have an absolute effect on that program.

“At this time, there have been no takers. We have already done our briefings with the defense bar and the attorney general’s office. We have even posted the forms on our website which instructs how to implement it or avail of it. But there just hasn’t been anyone to come forward,” Gumataotao said.

The program is geared toward the indigent and the client considered for electronic monitoring must fill out an Electronic Monitoring Program Packet to be considered for the program.

One of the criteria needing to be met is electricity at the home of the client otherwise the individual may be deemed ineligible. The eligibility packet is available on the Judiciary of Guam website.

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Jolene joined the PNC team in 2017, as a producer, co-anchor and investigative reporter covering law enforcement, courts and crimes. Notable coverage includes the Ehlert case, the Mark Torre Jr. trial, the Allan Agababa trial, exclusive pieces on the Life of a Drug Dealer/Addict, and Life behind bars...the story of Honofre Chargualaf and Kevin Cruz. In 2019, she was promoted to Assistant News Director and Lead Anchor. From 2015 to 2017 she served as Public Relations and Promotions Manager, for the Hotel Nikko Guam handling local radio and advertorial promotions, as well as produced and directed tv commercials for the hotel. Prior to this she worked with KUAM for three years as a reporter and segment host. She began her journalism career in 2012, working with Glimpses of Guam contributing to the Guam Business Magazine, R&R magazine, MDM magazine and the Marianas Business Journal.