SCRAM, or Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor, is a device worn around the ankle used to provide continuous alcohol monitoring. Typically, these devices are worn by repeat DUI offenders, but they can also be ordered for other crimes if the court believes that the defendant should be prohibited from consuming alcohol.
How SCRAM Bracelets Work
Alcohol, when consumed, is absorbed into the bloodstream. The presence of alcohol can be detected in bodily fluids, like sweat. The SCRAM device detects alcohol in the wearer’s sweat and will send a violation signal to the monitoring center it is linked with. Then, law enforcement will be notified of the violation.
If the device is tampered with, it will also alert the monitoring company. Common ways that SCRAM bracelets are tampered with are as follows:
- Immersing the device in water
- Layering clothing between the device and skin
- Avoiding contact with the skin by loosening the bracelet
SCRAM devices are accurate, and tampering with them will only lead to further trouble.
SCRAM Device Costs
SCRAM bracelets are not inexpensive. The cost to install the system costs between $50 and $100. But the cost does not end there. SCRAM bracelets require continuous monitoring to do their intended job, and this costs around $12 a day.
If you are ordered to use a SCRAM device, you are typically responsible for its cost and the monitoring fees associated with it.
Things to Know When Wearing a SCRAM Bracelet
SCRAM devices are ordered to keep repeat offenders and those who make poor choices when using alcohol accountable to the court when it orders them not to drink. You may have some questions about using the device. Here are a few fast facts about wearing the device:
- SCRAM bracelets can get wet but are not made to be submerged for any length of time, so going for a swim is probably out of the question if the court has ordered you to wear one.
- You should avoid mouthwash because it contains alcohol while wearing a SCRAM device. Otherwise, you could be reported in violation for alcohol use.
- Some SCRAM devices have built-in GPS.
- If you remove your SCRAM bracelet, your monitoring center will know and will alert law enforcement. You could face heft penalties for violating the court mandate.
- Electronic devices like the SCRAM bracelet and ignition interlock devices are used to monitor habitual impaired drivers and often work in tandem.
- While hairspray use at home is unlikely to send a false reading to the monitoring company, working in a beauty salon and being constantly exposed to hairspray could trigger an alcohol response, so be advised.
- Unless you are also on home detention, otherwise known as house arrest, the SCRAM bracelet does not require you to stay at home.
- If you are also on house arrest, you may be required to wear the SCRAMx
An Attorney Can Help
You may wonder how to get rid of your SCRAM device or what to do if it is falsely triggered if you have been ordered to wear one. This is a query best answered by your criminal defense attorney.
A Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney with Ciccarelli Law Offices is ready to fight for you and to defend your freedom. Contact us today to see how we can help you.
Contact Chester County DUI Defense Attorney
It may be possible to fight your Pennsylvania DUI charge and win, but you’ll never know if you plead guilty without first exploring your options. Ciccarelli Law Offices can review your case to determine whether the local Pennsylvania district attorney’s case has weaknesses that are open to challenge. We will prepare each case as though it is going to trial to insure preparation and thorough understanding and will take the case to trial if you are not satisfied with the resolution that is offered. We strive to be zealous advocates and always try to obtain the best results for our clients.
We are based in West Chester PA (Chester County) in Suburban Philadelphia and represent individuals charged with Drunk Driving, DUI, Driving After Imbibing cases Throughout Pennsylvania including but not limited to Philadelphia, Lancaster, Allentown, Oxford Exton Phoenixville Parkesburg Malvern Coatesville Lionville Chesterbrook Devon Newtown Square Glen Mills Pottstown Downingtown Kennett Square King of Prussia Paoli and beyond.
You deserve a West Chester Pennsylvania DUI lawyer that is available when you need him, treats you with respect, and protects your rights vigorously. For more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced Pennsylvania DUI Attorney at Ciccarelli Law Offices, by contacting us at (610) 692-8700 or toll free at (877) 529-2422.