If I was under house arrest, do the police monitor me by driving by my house slowly?

Yes and yes, but your neighbor may not be under house arrest, but just under surveillance.

They usually put an ankle tether on you when you are under house arrest,you can only go so far before the device goes off and alerts the police that you are violating the punishment.You bet this guy is being monitored by the police.I have heard it said that you also have to call in as well.

You sure they're not on vacation and the cops are checking for burglars? If they are under 'monitoring' it's usually a wireless device strapped to their ankle. Course most of the time, they could cut the thing off and the cops wouldn't find out until 2 or 3 days later.

They may be doing what's called a 'show of force'...they're letting the guy know he's being watched. It's also to let anyone else that may be lurking around know that he's being watched. If you were involved in illegal activities with this guy...would you go to his house knowing the cops come by every day?

Well chances are your neighbor is selling drugs. The cop is probably buying from him.