Sex Offenders in Panama to Be Obliged to Wear Electronic Monitoring Devices

The Public Ministry of Panama launched a pilot program on March 22, 2024, that requires sex offenders and domestic violence perpetrators to wear electronic bracelets as a means of monitoring their movements. This initiative was established through an inter-institutional agreement signed by various government agencies including the Attorney General’s Office, the Judicial Branch, the Ministry of Government, the Ministry of Women, and the Ministry of Public Security. The goal of this program is to provide victims with a sense of security and protection by enabling them to be alerted when the offender is within a 1 km radius of their location.

The electronic bracelets are designed in a way that prevents the wearer from being able to remove them. Victims who are eligible for the program will have an app installed on their cellphone, which will notify them when the perpetrator is in close proximity. If an alert is activated, the National Police will take action to arrest the perpetrator, who will then be prosecuted for violating their parole conditions. The decision to install the app on a victim’s cellphone will be determined by prosecutors based on the severity of the crime, the profile of the perpetrator, and the potential risks to which the victim may be exposed. Consent from the victim is required for the app to be installed.

The Public Ministry confirmed that the first person to receive the electronic bracelet in this program is an individual who allegedly raped a minor. The bracelets will be monitored by the General Directorate of the Penitentiary System to ensure compliance with the conditions set by the court. By implementing this initiative, authorities aim to increase the accountability of offenders and provide victims with a means of protection and peace of mind.

The use of electronic bracelets for monitoring sex offenders and domestic violence perpetrators is a novel approach in Panama that aims to improve the safety of victims and hold offenders accountable for their actions. By ensuring that offenders cannot remove the bracelet and providing victims with real-time alerts of the perpetrator’s proximity, the program seeks to prevent further harm and provide a sense of security to those who have experienced violence. The collaboration between multiple government agencies in implementing this program highlights the commitment of the Panamanian government to address issues of sexual assault and domestic violence in a proactive and effective manner.

Moving forward, the success of this pilot program will depend on its ability to effectively monitor offenders, respond promptly to alerts, and ensure the safety and well-being of victims. Continued collaboration between government agencies, prosecutors, law enforcement, and victim support services will be essential in addressing the complex challenges of sexual violence and domestic abuse. By utilizing technology and innovative solutions, Panama is taking steps towards creating a safer and more secure environment for individuals vulnerable to violence and abuse.