Issues in Ankle Monitor Programs: Missing Alleged Criminals in Chicago and California

Chicago is currently facing a security challenge involving the disappearance of individuals released with electronic ankle monitors. Reports have surfaced that 246 participants in the Cook County pre-trial program are missing. This includes some charged with serious crimes like murder and sexual assault. Former police chief Tom Weitzel has pointed out gaps in the system’s security.

In California, a related incident highlights the issue. A convicted child sex offender went missing two days after his GPS monitor emitted a tamper alert. Merle Wakefield, 69, disappeared from a San Diego worksite. Liberty Healthcare, responsible for his supervision, found the monitor removed and notified authorities.

The allegations against Wakefield are serious, with previous convictions for lewd acts with a child and rape by force.

Wakefield’s disappearance has caused significant concern. San Diego County’s Supervisor Jim Desmond expressed these concerns publicly, emphasizing Wakefield’s violent criminal history. Desmond criticized the state’s silence over Wakefield’s escape.

Wakefield is wanted for breaching his conditional release terms. Despite being monitored, he is now at large. His release process had faced objections due to the lack of a fixed residence, drawing criticism from local officials like Poway Mayor Steve Vaus. The introduction of a ‘transient release’ only heightened these concerns.

State Senator Brian Jones highlighted flaws in the conditional release system. An audit of California’s sexually violent predator program revealed rule violations by a significant portion of the participants. Jones criticized the program’s expenses and pushed against placing offenders back into communities.

In response to the outcry, the California Department of State Hospitals defended their methods, which include GPS monitoring and unannounced visits. However, the decision to release offenders ultimately lies with the court.

Desmond remains opposed to such placements, insisting these offenders pose ongoing risks to neighborhoods. The search for Wakefield continues, with authorities urging the public not to approach him and to report sightings immediately.