Manitoba expands ankle bracelet monitoring program for intimate partner violence survivors

Manitoba is expanding its ankle bracelet monitoring program for individuals accused of intimate partner violence. The program, which began in August, will now include rural areas and a new app called Empower to assist survivors with resources and emergency help. Previously limited to certain violent offenders, the program will now monitor those accused of intimate partner violence. The app will notify survivors if offenders breach bail conditions and provide access to court information and a panic button for immediate assistance. The province plans to use 100 devices, with 31 currently in operation. The initiative aims to enhance safety for survivors, particularly in rural communities, and is part of a broader effort to address rising violence rates in Manitoba.