The Guyana Prison Service (GPS) is taking a bold step toward modernising the country’s correctional system with the introduction of electronic ankle bracelets designed to monitor low-risk prisoners as they work both inside and outside prison walls.
Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, told the News Room during an interview on Thursday that the initiative is part of the Prison Service’s strategic plan to introduce smart technology in prisons, enhance public security and build trust among inmates.
Currently in the testing phase with ten devices, the programme is expected to expand to 300, with the potential for even more based on prisoner interest and security risk assessments.
Each bracelet is monitored from a central command operations room and operates within a geo-fenced zone. If a wearer steps outside the authorised area, the system immediately alerts the command center, and the prisoner receives a direct prompt.
“We have prompters that notify the wearer when they are 100 feet or 100 yards away from the authorized zone,” Elliot said.
The bracelets target convicted low-risk prisoners, giving them the opportunity to participate in work initiatives such as cleaning roadways, cemeteries and assisting government agencies.
“We have a large workforce inside the prison and many are eager to work but our supervision capacity is limited. This technology strengthens our ability to safely manage more prisoners at work,” Elliot said.
Beyond monitoring, the initiative also expands access to training programs and skills development, helping inmates remain active, earn income and prepare for reintegration into society.
“It gives prisoners an opportunity to be productive and earn for themselves while still under strict supervision,” Elliot noted.
Prison officers are being trained on the technology to ensure effective supervision. Importantly, the programme includes clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for breaches, which will be consistently reviewed and updated based on incidents.
The service providers are responsible for keeping the system functioning at optimal capacity.
Elliot also emphasised that for now, the bracelets are only used for convicted prisoners, but policymakers are exploring expansion to include parolees and those eligible for pre-release or home detention. Prisoners are classified and assessed upon entry based on risk, sentence, conduct and profile, which determines eligibility for the programme.
“This initiative is about building smart prisons, enhancing officer efficiency, fostering public trust and giving prisoners meaningful opportunities.
“It is part of a broader prison reform strategy aimed at correcting, rehabilitating, and reintegrating inmates into society,” Elliot said.
The ankle bracelet programme, Elliot said, has already generated significant interest among prisoners.
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