Abuse Using Technology

Some states have specific laws that allow judges and law enforcement to use technology in ways that are intended to protect victims of domestic violence. For example, law enforcement and courts can use global positioning systems (GPS) technology to track offenders who have committed domestic violence and stalking. Depending on your state, a judge may be able to order GPS tracking in a criminal or civil court case.

There are two types of GPS tracking – active and passive. With an active GPS tracking device, you would be notified if the abuser physically goes to a location where s/he is prohibited from entering. It is possible that additional notifications would go to law enforcement or any court-ordered supervision agency that is monitoring the offender.

With a passive GPS tracking device, the abuser may only be required to upload his/her location history once a day or even less frequently. The location history may then be reviewed from time to time by a probation officer, or it may be used as a tool by law enforcement if you allege that the abuser violated the order.