When someone faces an OUI or DUI charge in Massachusetts, one question that often comes up is: Will I have to wear a SCRAM bracelet? Courts sometimes order what’s known as a SCRAM bracelet (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor), a tool designed to track sobriety.
At Riccio Law, a Massachusetts-based criminal defense practice, we’ve seen how confusing this requirement can be for clients. This guide explains who typically has to wear such monitors, how they work, how long they last, and what happens if rules are broken. The goal is simple: to help you understand the process and prepare for what comes next.
What Is a SCRAM Bracelet?
The device is best understood as a continuous alcohol monitoring system. Worn around the ankle, it uses transdermal sensors to test for alcohol every 30 minutes and uploads results to a monitoring center.
There are several versions under the SCRAM system:
- SCRAM CAM: tests only for alcohol consumption.
- SCRAM GPS: tracks a person’s location.
- SCRAM House Arrest: monitors curfew compliance.
- SCRAM Remote Breath: a handheld device that uses GPS and facial recognition to confirm compliance, widely used in Massachusetts OUI probation.
It’s important to note that the ankle-worn CAM itself does not include GPS, even though many people assume it does.
SCRAM bracelets test every 30 minutes for alcohol through transdermal analysis and immediately upload data to a monitoring center. — SCRAM Systems
Who Has to Wear a SCRAM Bracelet?
Judges decide when monitoring is necessary, often making it a condition of probation or bail. The requirement is more likely in cases where alcohol played a central role.
Situations where these devices are typically ordered include:
In Massachusetts, courts often turn to SCRAM Remote Breath units instead of or in addition to continuous ankle monitors.
In Massachusetts, probation may require a SCRAM Remote Breath device, which includes GPS and facial recognition, rather than a continuous ankle bracelet. — Mass.gov
How Long Do You Have to Wear It?
The length of time varies depending on the case. Many people are required to wear or use these devices for 30 to 120 days, though some orders extend for months or even a year.
The exact duration is up to the judge and depends on factors like criminal history, compliance during probation, and whether any violations occur. In Massachusetts OUI probation, the period is often tailored individually and may extend if a person tests positive for alcohol.
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Costs and Responsibilities
Wearing a SCRAM bracelet comes with financial and personal responsibilities. Defendants are generally required to cover the costs themselves. These include:
- Installation fee: usually between $50 and $100.
- Daily monitoring fee: typically $10–$15, which can add up to $300–$450 a month.
- Removal fee: sometimes required when monitoring ends.
Living with the device also has practical challenges. These devices are water-resistant but not waterproof, so swimming is off-limits. Everyday products like hand sanitizers or cleaning chemicals may trigger alerts, though probation officers can review data to distinguish environmental exposure from actual drinking.
Travel is restricted too as probation approval is needed before leaving Massachusetts.
Costs are generally borne by the defendant, averaging $10–$15 per day in addition to an installation fee.
What Happens if You Violate SCRAM Conditions?
If the device detects alcohol consumption, tampers with readings, or records missed uploads, it immediately notifies a probation officer. Courts usually consider a reading above 0.02% BAC as a violation.
Tampering is also taken seriously. The bracelet monitors skin temperature and contact with the body. Attempts to block or remove it will almost always trigger an alert.
Consequences can include:
- Probation violation hearings.
- Stricter monitoring or extended SCRAM use.
- Jail time if the violation is severe.
Some defendants choose to wear one voluntarily before sentencing to show the court a commitment to sobriety. Judges sometimes view this as a positive step.
Living With a SCRAM Bracelet – What to Expect
For many people, the bracelet feels like an invasion of privacy. It is visible, and coworkers or family may notice. It can also limit personal freedom, especially for individuals who travel for work or social reasons.
Comparisons are often made between SCRAM bracelets and ignition interlock devices (IIDs). While IIDs prevent a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on a driver’s breath, continuous monitoring devices track sobriety around the clock, regardless of whether the person is driving. In Massachusetts, individuals facing OUI probation may encounter either or both.
SCRAM Bracelet Key Facts
|
Factor
|
Typical Range / Detail |
Massachusetts Note
|
| Device Types |
CAM (alcohol only), GPS, House Arrest, Remote Breath |
Remote Breath commonly used in OUI probation |
| Testing Frequency |
Every 30 minutes (CAM) |
Remote Breath at scheduled intervals |
| Duration |
30–120 days, longer for repeat violations |
Determined by MA judges/probation officers |
| Costs |
Install $50–$100, $10–$15 daily |
Defendant pays unless waived |
| Violation Threshold |
≥0.02 BAC detection |
Reviewed case by case in MA |
FAQs
Does a SCRAM bracelet track GPS?
The standard SCRAM CAM bracelet does not track GPS. However, SCRAM GPS and SCRAM Remote Breath devices include location features when ordered by the court.
Can you shower or swim while wearing it?
You can shower with it, as it is water-resistant. Swimming, soaking in tubs, or submerging it in water is not allowed and may damage the device.
What happens if you miss a Remote Breath test in Massachusetts?
A missed test may be flagged as a violation. Probation officers review the report and can call the individual in for a compliance check.
Can SCRAM give false positives?
Yes, certain products like mouthwash or hand sanitizer may trigger alerts. Courts review full data logs to confirm whether exposure was environmental or due to drinking.
Can wearing a SCRAM bracelet help reduce sentencing?
Some judges may consider voluntary SCRAM use as a positive sign of commitment to sobriety, potentially helping in sentencing discussions.
Conclusion
An alcohol monitoring device such as a SCRAM bracelet is more than just an ankle strap but a court-ordered tool used to enforce sobriety. In Massachusetts, judges often order these systems for OUI probation, and understanding how they work, what they cost, and how to avoid violations can make a significant difference.
If you are facing an OUI charge or probation requirement involving a SCRAM bracelet, contact Riccio Law to discuss your case and explore your options.
