How much does SCRAM cost in Colorado?

SCRAM monitoring in Colorado typically costs $10-12 per day, plus $50-100 installation. For a 30-day period, expect total costs of $350-550. For 90 days, $950-1,450. You may also pay weekly download fees of $25-50.

How long will I need to wear a SCRAM bracelet in Colorado?

SCRAM duration varies by case. Pre-trial monitoring typically lasts until your case resolves (weeks to months). Probation conditions may require 90 or longer. Repeat offenders or serious violations may face 6-12 months of monitoring.

Can SCRAM detect drugs?

Standard SCRAM CAM bracelets only detect alcohol. However, SCRAM offers a separate "Remote Breath" device that can test for alcohol, and some jurisdictions use drug patch testing in combination with SCRAM. Ask your monitoring provider what you are being tested for.

What happens if I drink while wearing SCRAM?

SCRAM tests your perspiration every 30 minutes. If alcohol is detected, the data is transmitted to your monitoring company and reported to your supervising authority (court, probation officer). Consequences can include immediate arrest, bond revocation, probation violation charges, and additional jail time.

Can products like hand sanitizer trigger a false positive?

Theoretically yes, but SCRAM technology can distinguish between consumed alcohol and environmental exposure. However, avoid applying alcohol-containing products directly to or near the bracelet. If questioned about a reading, document any products you used that day.

Can I shower/swim with a SCRAM bracelet?

Yes, SCRAM bracelets are waterproof. You can shower normally. Swimming is generally allowed but extended submersion should be avoided. The bracelet cannot be removed for any reason without authorization.

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Alcohol Monitoring

Colorado SCRAM Bracelet Guide

SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor) bracelets are court-ordered devices that test your perspiration for alcohol 24/7. Here's what to expect if you're required to wear one in Colorado.

$10-12

Daily Cost

State data

$50-100

Install Fee

One-time

Typical Duration

Varies by case

Costs and requirements vary by county and monitoring provider. Verify with your court order and assigned monitoring company.

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.

What Is a SCRAM Bracelet?

SCRAM CAM (Continuous Alcohol Monitoring) is an ankle bracelet that tests your perspiration every 30 minutes to detect any alcohol consumption. Unlike breathalyzers that test at specific times, SCRAM provides 24/7 monitoring—you cannot "time" your drinking to avoid detection.

How It Works

• Worn on ankle 24/7—cannot be removed
• Tests perspiration (transdermal) for alcohol
• Data uploaded via modem to monitoring center
• Tamper-evident with obstruction detection

Detection Window

• Tests every 30 minutes
• Detects alcohol 2-12 hours after consumption
• Even one drink will be detected
• Cannot be fooled or circumvented

When Do Colorado Courts Order SCRAM?

SCRAM monitoring is commonly ordered in these situations

Repeat DUI Offenders

Very Common

Courts commonly order SCRAM for second or subsequent DUI offenses to ensure no alcohol consumption during probation or pre-trial release.

High BAC Cases

Common

First-time DUI with high BAC (0.15+) may receive SCRAM monitoring to demonstrate sobriety.

Pre-Trial Release Condition

Common

As an alternative to jail, judges may release defendants on bond with SCRAM monitoring to verify abstinence.

Probation Violation

Very Common

If you violate probation terms (especially alcohol-related), SCRAM may be added as an enhanced monitoring condition.

Child Custody Cases

Occasional

Family courts sometimes order SCRAM monitoring in custody disputes involving alcohol abuse allegations.

Voluntary Monitoring

Occasional

Some people choose SCRAM voluntarily to demonstrate sobriety to employers, family, or as part of rehabilitation.

SCRAM Providers in Colorado

SCRAM monitoring is typically administered through probation departments or court-approved monitoring companies.

How to Get Set Up with SCRAM

Unlike ignition interlocks where you choose a provider, SCRAM monitoring is usually assigned by the court or probation department. Your monitoring provider will be specified in your court order.

SCRAM Systems (Primary)

Alcohol Monitoring Systems, Inc. (AMS) manufactures SCRAM devices and partners with local monitoring providers.

Visit SCRAM Systems

County Probation

Many counties operate SCRAM monitoring through probation departments. Contact your Colorado county probation office for local information.

Provider assigned based on your case jurisdiction

Colorado SCRAM Costs

Typical costs for SCRAM monitoring

Typical Costs

Installation Fee(one-time)

$50-100

Daily Monitoring Fee(per day)

Charged whether you wear it or not

$10-12

Download/Check-in Fee(per visit)

Usually weekly or bi-weekly

$25-50

Removal Fee(one-time)

$0-50

30-Day Estimate

Plus weekly download fees

$350-550

Cost Estimates

30-Day SCRAM$350-550

Typical pre-trial period

90-Day SCRAM$950-1300

Common probation period

Payment Options

Many monitoring companies offer payment plans. If cost is a hardship, ask your attorney about indigency provisions or alternative monitoring options.

What Triggers a SCRAM Violation?

Understanding what causes violations helps you avoid serious consequences

Alcohol Consumption

Major Violation

The primary purpose of SCRAM. Even small amounts of alcohol will be detected through your skin.

Consequences: Immediate notification to court/probation, possible arrest warrant

Tampering/Obstruction

Major Violation

Placing anything between the bracelet and your skin, or attempting to block the sensor.

Consequences: Treated as seriously as a positive alcohol reading

Bracelet Removal

Major Violation

Cutting, removing, or disabling the bracelet triggers immediate alerts. The device is tamper-evident.

Consequences: Immediate warrant, additional criminal charges possible

Missed Check-ins

Minor to Moderate

Failure to report for scheduled downloads or failing to charge the device's modem.

Consequences: Warning, then possible violation if repeated

Environmental Alcohol

May Be Excused

Products containing alcohol (hand sanitizer, perfume) applied near the bracelet may trigger false positives.

Consequences: Requires explanation; pattern of incidents is problematic

Living with a SCRAM Bracelet

Practical tips for completing your monitoring period successfully

Do's

•Charge the modem as instructed (usually nightly)
•Keep all scheduled check-in appointments
•Wear loose-fitting pants to accommodate the bracelet
•Document any environmental alcohol exposure
•Call your monitoring provider immediately with any issues
•Keep the bracelet clean and dry when possible

Don'ts

•Consume ANY alcohol—including cooking wine, kombucha, etc.
•Apply alcohol-based products near the bracelet
•Submerge the bracelet for extended periods
•Place anything between bracelet and skin
•Miss modem upload windows
•Try to tamper with or remove the device

Read Complete SCRAM Guide

Colorado SCRAM FAQ

Sources & Official Resources

Information sourced from SCRAM Systems documentation, Colorado court records, and probation department resources.

Last updated: January 2026

Facing SCRAM Monitoring in Colorado?

A DUI attorney can help you understand your monitoring requirements, potentially negotiate alternatives, or address violation allegations.

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