SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring) Overview

Although most drivers are aware of the dangers of drinking and driving, thousands are nevertheless convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) each year. Along with penalties such as fines, probation, and jail time, many individuals who are arrested for DUI are required to undergo regular alcohol monitoring. More often than not, this type of sentence requires offenders to wear an ankle bracelet known as a SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring) system. If you were recently convicted of DUI and your sentence includes this type of alcohol monitoring, make sure you know how the device works. Continue reading for a basic SCRAM overview.

As its name suggests, the SCRAM bracelet closely monitors a person’s alcohol intake. Typically reserved for repeat offenders—individuals with one or more prior DUI convictions on their criminal record—the SCRAM bracelet is designed to completely restrict alcohol use. As a result, the bracelet is capable of detecting even the slightest trace of alcohol.

The SCRAM bracelet uses transdermal alcohol testing to identify the presence of alcohol in a person’s system. Since alcohol is excreted through the skin, your perspiration contains small amounts of alcohol as well. As you continue to drink, the amount of alcohol in your system increases and, as your body rids itself of the substance, your sweat becomes more and more concentrated with alcohol—this is known as transdermal alcohol content (TAC). By continuously measuring your TAC, the SCRAM bracelet can therefore determine if you have recently consumed alcohol.

So what happens if you do drink while you’re wearing the SCRAM bracelet? First, the device will notify a central monitoring agency that it has detected alcohol in your system. The amount of alcohol present, along with the date and time it occurred, will then be recorded and sent to the appropriate law enforcement agency. As a result of this notification, you may face additional penalties for violating the terms of your sentence.

In an effort to prevent SCRAM from functioning correctly, many individuals may attempt to remove the bracelet or “trick” it by placing an object between their skin and the device. This, however, is ill-advised, as the system is tamper resistant and such attempts will be quickly reported to the monitoring facility.

If you have been charged with DUI, it is important to understand the consequences of such a conviction. Discuss your case with an experienced DUI attorney in your area to determine whether you may be required to wear a SCRAM bracelet as part of your sentence.