When you’re facing criminal charges, every detail matters. Sometimes the difference between going to prison and going free can come down to something as simple—and as flawed—as a GPS monitor or other piece of technology.
At James Law Group, LLC, we recently helped a client in mid-Missouri who was falsely accused of tampering with his court-ordered GPS monitor. Not only did the tampering allegation create a problem with his current supervision, it was also the basis for a new felony charge. This case shows how a strong legal defense, careful investigation, and experienced attorneys can protect your rights—especially when technology fails.
There are numerous varieties of ankle monitors with different capabilities and purposes. These devices are provided and maintained by private companies that provide the service and the device to the criminal justice system, at great expense to the defendants ordered to wear them. These systems are becoming increasingly common and are used in numerous ways by courts.
Because GPS has become intertwined with our daily lives, it is easy to overlook the complicated nature of how GPS works in an ankle monitor. The rapid increase in using ankle GPS monitors, particularly since COVID, has also raised concerns about the harm these devices can cause even when they work properly.
The Accusation: Tampering with a GPS Monitor
Our client had been previously released with conditions, including wearing an electronic GPS ankle monitor. One day, he was shocked to find himself accused of tampering with the device—a serious allegation that could have landed him in jail and/or prison.
From the start, our client insisted he had done everything required by the court. He followed the rules. He showed up for check-ins. He had no idea why he was being accused of tampering.
Unfortunately, when it comes to violations of GPS monitoring, many prosecutors and judges assume the device is always right. But that’s not always the case.
Investigating the Truth Behind the Technology
Unlike some defense teams who might accept what the report said, we trusted our client and dug deeper. At James Law Group, we believe in listening closely to our clients—and taking their concerns seriously. If our client said he didn’t tamper with the monitor, we were going do everything we could to prove it.
Step 1: Requesting the Maintenance Records
We filed motions to obtain all maintenance and service records related to the specific ankle monitor our client had been wearing. These records often go overlooked—but they can be critical when there is any suspicion a piece of technology used by the justice system was not working properly.
Step 2: Reviewing the Device History
When we reviewed the documentation, we discovered that the device had a history of malfunctions and signal issues. In fact, just a few weeks after the accusation against our client, the device had been flagged by the monitoring company as unreliable—and even unrepairable. The device had been removed from service and thrown away.
This evidence clearly showed that the GPS monitor had failed, not our client.
The Outcome: Charges Dropped
When we presented the evidence to the prosecutor, the response was clear. With proof that the monitor had been broken—and our client had complied with all conditions—the allegations of tampering were dropped immediately.
Our client avoided an extended stay in jail (or worse) and a felony conviction.
Key Takeaways from This Case
This wasn’t just a win in court. It was a powerful reminder of how important the right legal team can be. Here’s what this case teaches anyone dealing with a criminal charge:
1) We Take Clients Seriously
Our clients aren’t just case numbers or “defendants,” they are people who are entrusting us with their lives. We listen. We investigate. We fight for what’s right—even when the system is stacked against you. Whether it’s a broken GPS monitor, people lying to get you in trouble, or some other misarrange of justice, we will work tirelessly to achieve the best results possible.
2) Investigation Is Critical
Never assume that the initial report tells the whole story. By going beyond the surface, we uncovered a key detail in this case that others might have missed. The importance of a thorough investigation isn’t limited to broken GPS monitors or other technology. A rigorous investigation into all aspects of your case is the only way to make the best decisions and to obtain the best results.
3) Technology Isn’t Always Right
While GPS monitors are widely used, they are not perfect. Equipment can—and does—fail. Without effective legal help, people can be wrongly punished for problems caused by machines. These principals apply to all uses of technology in your case – whether that’s a radar gun in a speeding ticket, a breathalyzer in a DWI case, or cell phone records. The government presents machines as infallible to help gain convictions. The reality is that all technology fails and that a machine’s results are never the end of the story.
4) Experienced Lawyers Make a Difference
With decades of criminal defense experience, we know how to attack the evidence being used against you and how to build strong defenses that protect your future.
Accused of a Violation or crime You Didn’t Commit? Don’t Wait.
If you or a loved one is facing allegations related to GPS monitoring, probation violations, or other court-ordered conditions, it’s critical to act fast. Evidence can disappear quickly and prosecutors may assume the worst.
At James Law Group, we know how to fight back. From challenging faulty tech to exposing weak cases, we’ve helped hundreds of clients throughout Missouri get the outcomes they deserve.
Call us today for a free consultation
We’re ready to listen—and to fight for you.
Serving:
St. Charles, Lincoln, Warren, Montgomery, Gasconade, Audrain, Pike, Ralls, Franklin, Cole, Callaway, and Boone Counties
James Law Group, LLC
Criminal Defense | Traffic Tickets | Civil Litigation
636-397-2411