Electronic monitoring issues in Rio Grande do Norte

In Rio Grande do Norte, electronic monitoring systems faced technical and legal scrutiny in late 2026.

On August 31, the signal for 340 electronic ankle bracelets was interrupted following a service suspension by the American company Track Group. The interruption affected equipment operated by the Brazilian firm Tekgeo, which cited an outstanding debt of approximately US$ 675,000. However, the Rio Grande do Norte Penitentiary Administration (Seap) maintained that the state government was current on its financial obligations. Authorities reported that no breaches occurred during the interruption and worked to replace the affected units.

Separately, the Criminal Chamber of the Court of Justice of Rio Grande do Norte addressed the legal consequences of device tampering. The court upheld a ruling that breaking an electronic ankle monitor does not automatically mandate a more restrictive prison regime. In a specific case involving an inmate with bipolar affective disorder, the court determined that a change to a more rigid regime should only occur if there are clear signs of flight attempts, repeated non-compliance, or intent to evade monitoring.