September 21, 2015
House arrest is very viable sentencing option, and Florida has one of the largest house arrest programs in the country. House arrest in Florida is known as community control. Under community control, individuals convicted of a crime are confined to their home as part of their sentence.
The Enabling Statute
Florida Statutes Chapter 948 Section 10 permits house arrest. Without the availability of the program, many offenders would be required to serve jail or prison terms. Community control targets various groups of offenders, including serious felony offenders who have avoided incarceration.
Benefits of Community Control in Florida
It costs a tremendous amount of money to incarcerate an individual, so governing bodies can save tax dollars by utilizing community control. Still, community control primarily applies to those at a low risk for reoffense. Those in the program may keep their jobs and support themselves and their families, rather than losing their jobs and going on welfare. If restitution is ordered, the offender is much more likely to pay it, along with any fines and court costs.
Community Control Enforcement
Those in the program can expect regular and unannounced visits from their community control officer. The officer can even go to the offender’s job or school to make sure they are present. In some cases, those under community control will have to wear a monitor. The community control officer must approve and clear any appointments and obligations outside of the home. There are also strict regulations for traveling or leaving the county.
Call the Khonsari Law Group
If you’ve been charged with a probation or parole violation, or you have been charged with a non-capital felony, in the Tampa Bay area, call the Khonsari Law Group at (727) 269-5300, or use our online contact form.