Recent data obtained by CBC News reveals that over 60% of individuals released with ankle monitors in Manitoba since August 2024 were rearrested or violated their release conditions. The Justice Minister’s office reported that out of 530 people released under the program until October 16, 2025, 243 were rearrested for breaches or new offenses, while 53 absconded by removing the device, 16 damaged the strap, and 12 let the battery die.
Additional outcomes included charges being stayed for 11 individuals, 19 being sentenced, and one acquitted. Eight people had their monitoring conditions removed, and sadly, one person passed away while wearing the device. As of October 16, 166 individuals still had ankle monitors.
The release of these statistics followed CBC’s request, which was initially denied by the province. The data was shared during a recent bail hearing where a Crown attorney used the information to argue against the release of an individual facing domestic violence-related charges.
Another Crown attorney highlighted the program’s “staggering” failure rate in a separate hearing, emphasizing a case where an individual allegedly committed theft while wearing an ankle monitor. Despite the program’s setbacks, Justice Minister Matt Wiebe defended its effectiveness, citing the quick tracking capabilities enabled by GPS technology.
Criminologist Michael Weinrath criticized the program’s performance, indicating a high failure rate when considering individuals still under monitoring. Defense lawyer Christopher Gamby suggested varying perspectives on defining success based on breach detection. Meanwhile, the program’s budget allocation and conflicting opinions within the justice system raise concerns about its efficacy.
The ankle monitoring initiative, reintroduced in 2024 with expanded features and a budget increase, aimed to enhance public safety. While proponents argue for its utility in certain cases, critics advocate for redirecting resources towards addressing root causes of crime. The debate over the program’s efficacy continues as Manitoba evaluates its future implementation.