U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

Getting Corrections on the Map

NCJ Number
211855
Date Published
January 2001
Length
1 page
Annotation
This article discusses the potential use of geographic information systems (GIS) within corrections and probation and parole agencies across the country.
Abstract
Geographic information systems (GIS), which include crime mapping, global positioning systems, and automatic vehicle locator systems, are not new to criminal justice. Police agencies were creating crime maps as early as the 1960s, with the technology becoming widespread in the 1990s. Today, GIS is seen as not only a tool for police agencies but also a potential tool for corrections and probation and parole agencies. GIS is now being explored for use in daily operations in institutional and community settings. This article discusses the potential use of GIS in both institutional corrections and community corrections. However, to implement a GIS program, an agency must acquire the necessary hardware, software, and base maps. The hardware and software requirements are discussed.

Date Published: January 1, 2001