Ramsey County Pilot Project Puts Stalkers On GPS

ST. PAUL (AP) - Authorities in Ramsey County are using GPS technology to help monitor the whereabouts of alleged stalkers, and help keep their victims safe.

Officials are launching a pilot project Thursday. Defendants and victims who volunteer for the program will each wear a device as a condition of a defendant's pretrial release. When a defendant gets too close to his or her victim, a warning will sound.

Officials say the goal is to ensure victim safety, as well as make sure a defendant complies with any no contact orders.

The most dangerous offenders would not be eligible for this program. Authorities say it is targeted toward defendants who are of a medium risk, but who would not necessarily qualify for high bail conditions that would keep them in jail.