Corrections_Today_Spring_2026_Vol.88_No.1

How the Lone Worker App works Once an officer begins a shift, the Lone Worker App activates GPS tracking and operates in the background, logging time, location and movement in real time. Regu lar prompts remind the officer to check in, creating a steady rhythm of accountability and a documented trail of their activity. If a check-in is missed, the system initiates a five minute grace period with multiple prompts, including three phone calls and three text messages. If there is still no response, the Alert Loop activates, notifying a chain of designated monitors until one acknowledges the alert and takes responsibility. In urgent situations, the officer can bypass all prompts by immediately triggering the Alert Loop. Supervisors receive the officer’s exact location, contact details and clear escalation instructions, enabling a rapid and targeted response. The Lone Worker App is a lifeline that ensures when something goes wrong, help is already on the way. Operational details While the app stands guard in the officer’s pocket, an equally important role unfolds behind the scenes. Moni tors stand ready to respond, and the moment an alert is

regardless of the hour, location, or whether they were working with a partner, was required to use the Lone Worker App. This marked a strong statewide commit ment to safety. The program operates through two integrated com ponents. In the field, officers use a mobile application to start shifts, complete timed check-ins, update locations and end their day, all while their movements are tracked in real time. In an emergency, an officer can trigger an immediate SOS alert by pressing and holding the help button or shaking the device. Supervisors monitor activity through a secure web portal that mirrors the field. They can view active ses sions, receive real-time alerts, track an officer’s last known location, initiate response protocols and docu ment every step taken. This layered approach ensures no request for help goes unnoticed and no response is delayed. Since the statewide launch, officers have completed approximately 10,000 field sessions each month using the system. Each session represents an officer stepping into the community with the assurance someone is monitoring their safety and ready to act if they do not re turn as planned. The program has redefined what safety looks like in community corrections and reinforced the message that every officer’s life matters.

Spring 2026 | Corrections Today

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