Ankle monitoring in Alberta a moot point without Criminal Code changes, critics say [Video]

Albertans convicted or accused of a crime can now be ordered to wear 24/7 ankle monitors that electronically track their movements using GPS.

The move was first announced in March 2024.

Public Safety Minister Mike Ellis said the move, which came into effect Jan. 15, gives courts another tool to consider when determining sentencing or bail conditions, and will help combat crime.

The province added it is meant to target those who pose a public safety risk, and it comes in response to what it calls the country’s “catch-and-release” bail system.

However, the Criminal Trial Lawyers Association said the provincial government doesn’t actually have the legal authority to tell judges to enforce it.

“The Criminal Code is dealt with by the federal government and that Criminal Code has not changed in Alberta, now that we’re asking the Crown to now asking to have these ankle bracelets put into place,” said Shawn King, vice-president of the Criminal Trial Lawyers Association. “Judges are …