Is There an Ankle Monitor for Alcohol?

We're all familiar with ankle monitors that track locations for house arrest or parole. But what if someone's legal issue involves alcohol rather than location? Could there be an ankle monitor designed to detect alcohol consumption?

Yes, there is an ankle monitor for alcohol. It is called a Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor (SCRAM). A SCRAM monitor is a bracelet that is worn around the ankle. It tests the wearer's sweat for alcohol every 30 minutes, 24 hours a day.

The SCRAM monitor uses a transdermal alcohol sensor to test for alcohol. Transdermal alcohol sensors measure the amount of alcohol that is excreted through the skin. When someone drinks alcohol, a small amount of it is excreted through the skin in the form of insensible perspiration.

The SCRAM monitor is a very accurate way to test for alcohol consumption. It can detect alcohol levels as low as 0.02% BAC. This is lower than the legal limit for driving in most countries.

How Does It Work?

Sweat Monitoring

The SCRAM bracelet tests the sweat on your skin for alcohol content. If alcohol is detected, it sends a report to authorities.

Frequency

Typically, the bracelet takes readings every 30 minutes to one hour, ensuring continuous monitoring.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Pros

• Non-invasive
• Continuous monitoring
• Court-admissible evidence

Cons

• Can be uncomfortable
• Expensive
• False positives are possible

Real-World Applications

DUI Cases

SCRAM bracelets are often used for individuals convicted of DUI, especially repeat offenders.

Child Custody Cases

In some instances, these bracelets are used to ensure a parent remains sober when they have custody of their children.

Examples

Celebrity Usage

Lindsay Lohan wore a SCRAM bracelet in 2010, which caught her violating her probation after it detected alcohol.

Everyday Joe

Meet Joe, a fictional character with multiple DUIs. His SCRAM bracelet helped him prove his sobriety and led to reduced legal penalties.

Things to Consider

Legal Requirements

You usually can't choose to wear a SCRAM bracelet; it's often mandated by the court.

Cost

Be prepared for costs, as you might have to pay for daily monitoring.

Conclusion

SCRAM bracelets offer a compelling way to monitor alcohol consumption in a legal context. They're non-invasive, efficient, and increasingly common in DUI and custody cases. While they have their drawbacks, their benefits often make them a useful tool in promoting responsible behavior.