House arrest is a form of criminal punishment or preventive measure in which an individual is confined to their residence for a specific period of time. The person may be required to wear an electronic monitoring device, such as ankle bracelet, and are usually prohibited from leaving the premises except for certain approved activities like medical appointments or legal proceedings. House arrest is often used as an alternative to incarceration for minor offenses or as a form of punishment for more serious crimes when deemed necessary by law enforcement officials.