Japan plans GPS tracking trial for sex offenders on parole
TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's Justice Ministry plans to launch a trial to track sex offenders on parole via GPS as early as fiscal 2027, a ministry officia
The Justice Ministry of Japan is set to initiate a pilot program aimed at tracking sex offenders on parole through the use of GPS devices from fiscal 2027, according to an official statement released on Tuesday. The ministry anticipates that data gathered from the GPS devices, which will be worn voluntarily by those on conditional release, will enable supervisors to identify potential warning signs and provide necessary guidance to prevent reoffending.
Participation in the trial will be restricted to parolees who choose to take part. The ministry will decide which types of sexual offenses will be included in the trial. If the results indicate that GPS monitoring effectively prevents repeat offenses, the ministry may consider making the devices compulsory and expanding the scope of offenses covered.
Currently, individuals on parole are obligated to meet regularly with their supervisors and accurately report their daily activities. Non-compliance can lead to the revocation of their parole.
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