Colorado SCRAM Bracelet Guide

The financial weight of SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring) in Arapahoe County is substantial: $10 - $12 per day ($300-$360/month), plus an initial installation fee of $50-$100.

SCRAM Alcohol Monitoring in Arapahoe County, Colorado: A Comprehensive Guide

If you've been arrested for DUI in Arapahoe County, Colorado, you might encounter SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring) as part of your bond conditions, probation, or as a condition of a Deferred Judgment and Sentence (DJS). This guide explains how SCRAM works, its costs, and what you need to know to successfully navigate this monitoring requirement.

When is SCRAM Required in Arapahoe County?

SCRAM is typically ordered in Arapahoe County under the following circumstances:

• Felony DUIs: Individuals facing felony DUI charges due to multiple prior offenses or aggravating factors.
• High-BAC Repeat Offenders: Those with multiple DUI convictions and/or very high blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of arrest.
• High Bond Conditions: As a condition of release on bond, particularly if the court deems the individual a high risk to re-offend.

How SCRAM Works: Transdermal Alcohol Monitoring

SCRAM is an ankle bracelet that continuously monitors your sweat for the presence of alcohol. It uses transdermal alcohol monitoring technology to detect alcohol excreted through the skin. The device takes readings every 30 minutes, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This data is then transmitted wirelessly to a monitoring center.

Unlike breathalyzers or urine tests, SCRAM provides continuous monitoring, making it more difficult to circumvent.

SCRAM Costs in Arapahoe County

The financial burden of SCRAM can be significant. Expect to pay:

• Installation Fee: $50-$100 (one-time fee)
• Daily/Monthly Monitoring Fee: $10 - $12 per day, totaling $300-$360 per month.
• Removal Fee: There may be a fee associated with removing the SCRAM device at the end of the monitoring period. Contact your SCRAM provider for details.

These costs are in addition to other expenses associated with a DUI, such as legal fees, court fines, and increased insurance premiums.

Products to Avoid While on SCRAM

Because SCRAM detects transdermal alcohol, certain common household products containing alcohol can trigger false positive alerts. To avoid violations, strictly avoid using the following products on or near the SCRAM device:

• Hairspray
• Cleaning Products (especially those containing isopropyl alcohol)
• Mouthwash (containing alcohol)
• Some Medications: Check with your doctor and pharmacist to ensure any medications you take do not contain alcohol.
• Spray Tans and Certain Lotions: Be cautious with products applied to your skin, especially near the device. Check ingredient labels carefully.
• Hand Sanitizer: Avoid applying hand sanitizer directly on or near the SCRAM device.

It's crucial to read labels carefully and be aware of the ingredients in any products you use. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and avoid using the product near the SCRAM device.

SCRAM Violations: What Triggers Alerts and Consequences

Any detection of alcohol by the SCRAM device is reported to the court as a violation of your bond conditions or probation. This can have serious consequences, including:

• Bond Revocation: Immediate return to jail.
• Probation Violation: Potential for harsher probation terms or even jail time.
• Loss of Deferred Judgment: If on a DJS, a violation could lead to a conviction on the original DUI charge.

False positives can occur, but it's your responsibility to demonstrate that the alert was not due to alcohol consumption. This may involve providing evidence such as receipts for products used or undergoing additional testing.

Duration of SCRAM Monitoring in Arapahoe County

The length of time you're required to wear a SCRAM device depends on the specifics of your case and the judge's orders. It can range from a few weeks to several months, or even longer for repeat offenders or those with felony DUI charges.

SCRAM Removal Logistics

Removing the interlock is not as simple as waiting for the restricted time to expire. It requires a specific synchronization with the DMV database. The driver must contact the DMV (303-205-5613) to confirm eligibility for removal before having the device taken out. The DMV does not automatically notify the driver or the interlock company that the term is up. Once the interlock requirement is cleared in the system, the driver must physically go to the Centennial driver license office to pay the reinstatement fee (approx. $95) and have their unrestricted license printed.