The incoming Trump administration is reportedly exploring a substantial increase in the use of GPS ankle monitors to track undocumented immigrants not held in federal detention centers, according to sources familiar with the transition team's plans. This move aligns with President-elect Trump's commitment to prioritize the detention and deportation of individuals residing in the country without legal authorization, alongside bolstering border security measures.

Currently, ICE's detention capacity is limited, holding tens of thousands compared to the millions of undocumented immigrants estimated to be in the U.S. To address this, the administration intends to expand the Alternatives to Detention (ATD) program, which utilizes ankle and wrist monitors, as well as cell phone apps, to track individuals awaiting immigration proceedings. As of November, ICE data indicates approximately 187,747 individuals are monitored through technology, including about 25,000 with ankle or wrist devices. The administration aims to increase these numbers significantly, particularly for ankle and wrist monitors, and extend the duration of monitoring.

This strategy is partly contingent on the administration's success in curbing border crossings. By reducing the influx of new arrivals, the existing monitoring devices can be reallocated to individuals already within the country, allowing for more comprehensive tracking over longer periods. Proponents of ATD highlight its high compliance rates and cost-effectiveness compared to detention. However, critics argue that such monitoring creates a "digital prison" and infringes on individuals' liberties. Conversely, some advocate for expanding the program to facilitate the location and removal of individuals with final deportation orders.

The proposed expansion aligns with legislative efforts like the Justice for Jocelyn Act, which mandates continuous GPS monitoring for all undocumented immigrants not in detention, with specific curfew requirements and penalties for non-compliance. The GEO Group, a key contractor for ICE's electronic monitoring technology, recently announced a significant investment to enhance its capacity, anticipating increased demand under the new administration.