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GPS Tracking Laws In Wisconsin

GPS Tracking Laws In Wisconsin- Are GPS Trackers Legal In WI?

With the increasing popularity of GPS tracking systems, many consumers interested in this new form of monitoring technology may have asked themselves about the legality or potential laws surrounding vehicle tracking. Whether the user is a police enforcement agency, parent of a teenager, or spouse suspecting infidelity, it is important to understand the varying laws of using GPS tracking devices. First of all, buying a GPS car tracker is 100% legal, but how you use the device can determine if a law is being broken. Let’s take a closer look at GPS warrants, employment law, and Wisconsin law if you want to track the movement of a cheating partner.

Wisconsin Law 940.315 On Global Positioning Devices

Workplace Privacy Data Management – Employment GPS Laws In Wisconsin

If you are an employer or business owner who wants to track an employee operating a vehicle owned by the company, Wisconsin labor laws regarding GPS tracking exempt, “[An]employer or business owner acting to track the movement or location of a motor vehicle owned, leased, or assigned for use by the employer or business owner.” That means you can track a company-owned vehicle without a persons’ consent.

Police GPS Guidelines In Wisconsin

Law enforcement agencies have found great success in capturing and monitoring criminals using GPS tracking devices, whether they are real-time GPS or car trackers with no monthly fees. These devices offer three key features that make them ideal for law enforcement: magnetic mounts, compact size, and waterproof casing. With these features, authorities can quickly and discreetly place a GPS tracker on a vehicle without having to enter it. The tracker can be magnetically mounted underneath the vehicle, allowing for GPS signal acquisition reflected off the ground. Law enforcement can then monitor the vehicle remotely in real-time or review its past movements.

Guidelines regarding the use of GPS technology by law enforcement vary from state to state. Some state Supreme Courts have ruled that police can use GPS devices without a warrant if they are placed outside the vehicle, considering roadways as public property. However, the Supreme Court has upheld that the Fourth Amendment requires a search warrant before using any GPS tracking device. While many states have yet to pass legislation on this matter, several police departments have implemented their own internal policies regarding the use of live GPS trackers.

Although GPS tracking laws are still undefined in many aspects, the precise, affordable, and accessible nature of the technology ensures its continued use as a valuable tool for law enforcement. With tracking devices capable of performing the monitoring work of multiple individuals, police departments can rely on this technology even in budget-constrained times. The data provided by GPS tracking devices aids in the ongoing battle against crime, enabling law enforcement agencies to enhance their investigative capabilities.

Criminal Penalties For Improper GPS Usage In WI

What are the criminal penalties for improper GPS use in the state of Wisconsin? The answer is you would be found guilty of Class A misdemeanor. This is why in order to avoid GPS legal issues you should consult with an attorney before using a vehicle tracker.

Track Spouse In Wisconsin

Can you legally track your spouse? The family code in Wisconsin doesn’t consider “fault” in property division or financial issues related to divorce. Even if you use a tracker and discover infidelity, it won’t affect your case. The GPS data merely satisfies curiosity. Let’s delve into the legality of tracking a spouse. Wisconsin law deems it a Class A misdemeanor to place a GPS device on a vehicle without the owner’s consent. However, if you own the vehicle, you can track it without consent. Therefore, if you place a tracker on a partner’s car parked on public property, it falls into a legal gray area.

“(a) Places a global positioning device or a device equipped with global positioning technology on a vehicle owned or leased by another person without that person’s consent.”

In general, GPS monitoring systems can be legally used by parents monitoring their teenage drivers or employers tracking company vehicles. But if you intend to catch a cheating spouse, consult an attorney before using a hidden GPS. GPS devices can uncover valuable information like whereabouts and duration. They have helped expose many cheating spouses, fulfilling desperate desires for answers. However, data gathered unlawfully may not be admissible in court.

Consulting a licensed attorney in Madison, Milwaukee, Green Bay, Superior, Muskego, or your area of intended use is strongly advised. And do this before you consider using any GPS surveillance equipment.

Disclaimer

Tracking System Direct does not assume liability for the use of GPS trackers. In fact, we strongly advise you to consult a licensed attorney for any legal inquiries. GPS tracking laws are subject to change, and it is important to seek professional guidance. The information provided in this article is not intended as legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. You are responsible for understanding and complying with applicable laws and regulations regarding the use of GPS tracking devices. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a legal professional to address specific concerns and obtain accurate legal advice.

Matthew Henson
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