The number of sex offenders keeps growing in Abilene. There were around 270 registered offenders in the city back in 2007. Now, there are more than 300. Keeping tabs on that many sex offenders could be a challenge, but with new high tech equipment the probation officers can now keep a close watch on those that need it.
The Probation Officers say the GPS system they use can track their offenders and pinpoint their location within four feet. That could make the difference in how close they can get to child's school.
Before going onto the GPS tracking system, the probation officers and supervisors explained to me the ins and outs of my ankle bracelet and monitors.
"These two items right here are like Sonny and Cher, they have to be together at all times," explained Natalie Witkowski, a supervisor in the Corrections Department.
"Wherever you go these have to go with you," added Gary Reed, my GPS probation officer.
So which offenders are tracked?
"The probationers that are having difficulty being non-compliant with curfew violations, drug use, and delinquent fees," Reed said.
After getting fitted for the monitor, they told me what I had to do to obey the rules: I could not leave my monitor, I couldn't take or cut the bracelet off, I had to be in by my curfew, and I was not supposed to go near certain schools.
Reed added that the GPS tracker does allow for enough time to pass through a school zone. "I gave you enough time to get through there, like if you were minding your own business, without setting off an alert that you're in violation."
They went on to say that if I violated any of my conditions, my monitor will alert me and send them a message as well.
After hearing the rules, I went through my day like normal, but I couldn't resist testing my limits. I left my monitor on my desk while i walked away from it, I even failed to follow my curfew times, and I made my biggest mistake by driving up to Clack Middle School where I stopped and waited.
Reed knew all about it.
He as able to follow my every move, even knowing how fast I was driving, which showed me that there wasn't anything I could do to hide.
The Corrections Department here in Abilene, say using these digital devices have made their jobs easier, and that having the GPS system puts them ahead of some other programs in the state.
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