Due to jail overcrowding problems, it was decided to test home confinement augmented by an electronic surveillance system as a jail alternative. Sentenced misdemeanors were targeted and a capacity lid of 30 participants was set for the six-month pilot period. The program was staffed by a case management team consisting of a probation officer and a technician. A wristlet is worn by the offender, and a central computer makes a specified number of calls to the offender during various time periods in a 24-hour day. When the call is received the offender must answer identifying questions, then match the wristlet to the verifier in an "electronic handshake." EHC appears to be an extremely cost-effective alternative to incarceration for low risk offenders, providing appropriate retribution and surveillance within a level of accountability that is higher than jail itself.