Poland plans electronic arrest as alternative to pre-trial detention

Poland is moving towards introducing electronic arrest as a preventative measure, offering an alternative to traditional pre-trial detention. This initiative seeks to address concerns about the overuse of pre-trial detention, a problem long highlighted by legal professionals and supported by statistics indicating a high acceptance rate of detention requests by courts.

A previous government proposal for a broader amendment to the criminal procedure code, which included electronic arrest, was vetoed by the president. However, the concept is being revived. The proposed electronic arrest would function as an intermediate measure between police supervision and full pre-trial detention. Individuals subject to this measure would remain in a location specified by the court, typically their home, and be monitored via an electronic ankle bracelet.

The Ministry of Justice, led by Minister Waldemar Żurek, is actively developing the project, with Deputy Minister Maria Ejchart confirming that a draft is anticipated by the end of the year. This new measure would apply during different stages of criminal proceedings, requiring consent from both the accused individual and their adult household members. The system aims to provide judicial or prosecutorial oversight, allowing for adjustments to the designated location and time restrictions if necessary, thereby reducing the burden on detention facilities.

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The resort intensively works on these regulations, and the project is to be ready by the end of the year.