Calls are mounting for increased use of technology, specifically GPS monitoring, to protect individuals from domestic abuse, following the murder of Stacy Hunter in Renfrewshire. An online petition is urging authorities to implement location tracking for high-risk domestic abuse perpetrators or those released on bail.
This proposed system could involve individually assessed exclusion zones around victims, their homes, or workplaces. Violations of these zones would trigger alerts, potentially prompting police responses. Mike Nellis, an emeritus professor of Criminal and Community Justice at the University of Strathclyde and an expert in electronic monitoring, stated that such a system is entirely feasible. He explained that an exclusion zone could be established around a victim's residence, with alerts activated if an abuser enters it. However, he noted that the zone would need to be large enough to allow law enforcement sufficient time to intervene.
Professor Nellis suggested that while Scotland has been hesitant to adopt GPS technology, the current campaign might find receptive ears among ministers who are actively exploring methods to reduce the prison population. Despite its potential, Nellis cautioned that no monitoring system is infallible. "I think probably every jurisdiction that has used it has at one point in time had an offender who still managed to assault, injure or kill the victim," he told BBC Scotland News. "It's a helpful solution but it's not perfect."
He also acknowledged concerns previously raised by some women's support groups, who have voiced fears that such technological solutions might inadvertently create a false sense of security for victims.