November 19, 2025 | Criminal Defense
House arrest is one of the most common alternatives to jail in the criminal justice system. Instead of serving time behind bars, a person serves their sentence at home under strict rules and supervision.
Understanding how house arrest works in Kentucky can help you know what to expect if it’s ordered in a criminal case.
What Is House Arrest?
House arrest (often called home confinement or home detention) is a court order that requires a person to stay at a specific residence for a set period of time. The goal is to restrict freedom while still allowing someone to live in the community.
Judges may use house arrest for lower-level or nonviolent offenses, or when they want to reduce jail crowding. It can be used either before trial (as a condition of release) or after a conviction as part of a sentence.
How Electronic Monitoring Works
Most house arrest programs rely on some form of electronic monitoring to keep track of a person’s location and verify compliance with court-ordered rules.
The monitoring equipment usually includes:
- An ankle bracelet: A secure, tamper-resistant device that records movement and tracks whether the person stays within approved areas.
- A home monitoring unit: Some programs use a base device in the home that communicates with the bracelet and sends information to supervising officers.
- GPS or radio-frequency technology: GPS provides real-time location information, while RF technology confirms whether someone is inside or outside their residence.
The system alerts authorities if the device is removed, if the battery dies, or if the person travels somewhere they are not allowed to be. Officers may also check in by phone or conduct unannounced home visits.
Common Rules and Restrictions
People on house arrest must follow detailed rules. Typical conditions include:
- Staying within a designated residence unless given permission to leave
- Following a written schedule for work, school, or appointments
- Avoiding alcohol, illegal drugs, and certain locations or people
- Submitting to random drug or alcohol testing
- Allowing home visits and possible searches by supervising officers
- Not tampering with or removing the ankle monitor
Many programs also require participants to pay for monitoring. These fees can include daily charges, installation costs, and testing fees. In some cases, financial hardship may be considered, but this depends on local policies.
Eligibility for House Arrest
Not everyone qualifies for house arrest. Courts usually look at:
- The nature and severity of the current charges
- Whether the offense involved violence or weapons
- Past criminal record and history of appearing in court
- Employment status and ties to the community
- Availability of a stable, approved residence
House arrest is more common for first-time or nonviolent offenses, but each case is different and heavily influenced by local law and the judge’s discretion.
Violations and Consequences
Violating house arrest rules can lead to immediate and serious consequences. Violations may include leaving home without permission, straying from the approved schedule, tampering with the ankle monitor, skipping appointments, or failing drug or alcohol tests.
When a violation occurs, supervising officers usually review the incident and notify the court. Depending on the severity, possible outcomes include:
- A warning or written notice for minor, first-time issues
- Stricter conditions, such as tighter schedules or reduced privileges
- Additional monitoring requirements or increased check-ins
- Extension of the house arrest period
- Removal from the program, which often results in being taken to jail
- New charges, particularly for tampering with monitoring equipment or repeated violations
Courts generally treat noncompliance seriously because house arrest is considered a privilege.
Tips for Successfully Completing House Arrest
Finishing a house arrest term without violations often comes down to staying organized and following the rules closely. While each program has its own requirements, these practices can help you stay in compliance:
- Keep an accurate schedule
- Charge the ankle monitor as instructed
- Communicate with supervising officers
- Follow approved routes and times
- Maintain documentation
- Avoid prohibited people, places, or substances
Being proactive and staying in regular contact with supervising officers can make it easier to meet all requirements and complete the program successfully.
A Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help
Navigating house arrest in Kentucky can be challenging, especially when the rules are strict and violations carry serious consequences. Having legal guidance can help you understand your obligations, stay in compliance, and address any issues that arise during the process.
For more information, contact the criminal defense attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers. Give us a call today at (859) 569-4014 or visit us at our Lexington law office.
Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers – Lexington
333 West Vine Street #212,
Lexington, KY 40507
(859) 569-4014