The ethics of aesthetics: Stigma, information, and the politics of electronic ankle monitor design

Unstable gynaecological patient with an ankle monitor: implications of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Alternatives to Detention programme in the healthcare setting

“…As illustrated by our patient in her perspective as follows, as well as in a recent national survey, a final and important consideration is the psychological harm, trauma, isolation and anxiety ankle monitoring devices can cause individuals 7. Particularly in the medical setting, patients with ankle monitoring devices may experience a heightened sense of stigmatisation and fear the potential consequences of their device’s removal or malfunctioning (eg, due to inadequate charge) with respect to immigration or other law enforcement proceedings 24. In the case of individuals wearing these devices as part of an ATD programme for immigration proceedings, some may feel they are judged and perceived as ‘criminals’ due to the use of ankle monitoring devices across other law enforcement proceedings, including individuals convicted of violent crime (eg, after they are released on parole) 7 24.…”

“…Particularly in the medical setting, patients with ankle monitoring devices may experience a heightened sense of stigmatisation and fear the potential consequences of their device’s removal or malfunctioning (eg, due to inadequate charge) with respect to immigration or other law enforcement proceedings 24. In the case of individuals wearing these devices as part of an ATD programme for immigration proceedings, some may feel they are judged and perceived as ‘criminals’ due to the use of ankle monitoring devices across other law enforcement proceedings, including individuals convicted of violent crime (eg, after they are released on parole) 7 24. In fact, the common Spanish term for these devices (‘grilletes’) translates directly to ‘shackles’ 25 26.…”