Bill > H3028

This bill amends South Carolina law to provide courts with an additional option for monitoring individuals charged with domestic violence offenses by allowing them to place the accused on surveillance using an active electronic monitoring device (AEMD) instead of or in addition to setting bond. The AEMD is a sophisticated, all-body worn tracking device that records the person's location every minute, 24 hours a day, and provides real-time location information to the victim. The person under monitoring must maintain the device in working order, report any incidental damage within two hours, and abide by law enforcement instructions. They are also responsible for paying the cost of the device and monitoring, though financial hardship exemptions may be available. The bill includes penalties for intentionally tampering with or destroying the monitoring device, which could result in court-determined punishment. If cellular coverage is poor, law enforcement may use alternative monitoring devices. The legislation aims to enhance victim safety by providing constant location tracking of domestic violence offenders and giving courts more flexibility in pre-trial monitoring. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3028&session=126&summary=B