Texas SCRAM Bracelet Guide

Recovery Healthcare Corporation (RHC) holds the master contracts for many of the largest Community Supervision and Corrections Departments (CSCDs) in Texas. This deep integration with the courts often means an RHC representative is present in the courtroom or has a dedicated office inside the probation building. Here's a comprehensive guide to SCRAM alcohol monitoring in Texas, focusing on the practical aspects you need to know.

When is SCRAM Required in Texas?

SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring) isn't just a judge's whim; it's often mandated by Texas law, particularly in DWI cases. The requirements depend on whether you're in the pretrial phase (before conviction) or on community supervision (probation) after a conviction.

Pretrial (Bond Conditions):

• Mandatory Monitoring (CCP Art. 17.441): If you're charged with a subsequent DWI (2nd, 3rd, etc.) or any Intoxication Assault or Intoxication Manslaughter charge (even a first offense), Article 17.441 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure kicks in. This usually means an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your car.
• The "Non-Driver" Exception: If you don't own a car or your license is suspended, the judge can't order an IID. In this case, SCRAM often becomes the substitute to satisfy the mandatory monitoring requirement.
• Discretionary Authority (CCP Art. 17.40): Even for a first-time DWI, a judge can order SCRAM if there are aggravating factors, such as a high BAC, an accident, or a history of alcohol abuse.
• High BAC (0.15 or higher): In counties like Montgomery and Collin, a BAC of 0.15 or higher is often seen as a sign of serious alcohol dependency, leading prosecutors to request SCRAM as a condition of bond.

Post-Conviction (Community Supervision/Probation):

• Abstinence Requirement: A standard condition of probation for DWI is abstaining from alcohol. SCRAM helps enforce this.
• DWI Courts: Texas has specialized DWI Courts focused on rehabilitation. The first phase (3-6 months) often involves mandatory SCRAM monitoring to establish sobriety. Senate Bill 232 supports this.
• Felony/Repeat DWI: For repeat offenders, SCRAM is practically expected as a condition of probation.

How SCRAM Works: Transdermal Alcohol Monitoring

SCRAM isn't a breathalyzer on your ankle. It's a transdermal alcohol monitoring device. This means it tests your perspiration (sweat) for alcohol every 30 minutes, 24/7.

The device works by:

1. Collecting Perspiration: The bracelet sits snugly against your skin, collecting insensible perspiration.
2. Transdermal Analysis: The device analyzes the perspiration for ethanol (alcohol).
3. Data Transmission: The data is transmitted to a monitoring center, usually via a base station in your home or cellular connection.

Unlike a breathalyzer, which only gives a snapshot of your BAC at a specific moment, SCRAM provides a continuous picture, making it much harder to drink without detection.

SCRAM Costs in Texas: A Breakdown

SCRAM is offender-funded, meaning you're responsible for the costs. These aren't regulated by statute and vary by county and vendor (like RHC or Safe Monitoring Solutions).

Estimated Costs (2025):

The high cost of SCRAM can be a significant burden, and courts are supposed to consider your ability to pay (CCP Art. 42A.655).

Products to Avoid While on SCRAM

False positives can happen. Avoid anything that could expose your skin near the device to alcohol.

• Hairspray
• Cologne
• Cleaning solvents
• Hand sanitizer
• Certain lotions

A defendant applying lotion to their leg could trigger the sensor. The lab should flag this as environmental, but interpretation errors occur.

SCRAM Violations: What Triggers Them and the Consequences

Several things can trigger a SCRAM violation:

• Alcohol Detection: Any BAC reading above a pre-set threshold (often 0.02) is a violation.
• Tampering: Attempting to remove or disable the device.
• Obstruction: Placing something between the device and your skin (like thick socks).
• Water Tamper: Submerging the device in water.
• Connectivity Issues: Failure to properly connect to the base station (if required) or charge the device.

Consequences vary but can include:

• Warning: For minor, explainable violations.
• Increased Restrictions: Longer monitoring period, stricter probation terms.
• Jail Time: For serious or repeated violations.

If you are accused of a false positive, the following steps are critical:

1. Immediate Documentation: If a spill occurs or a product is used, the defendant should note the time and product.
2. Request Raw Data: A standard violation report is a summary. The defense must subpoena the raw data logs, specifically the IR Voltage graphs and Temperature logs.
3. Expert Analysis: Defense attorneys often hire independent experts to review the graphs.

An expert will look for a near-vertical rise in alcohol concentration. Human bodies cannot absorb alcohol instantly. A vertical rise indicates external application (spill). Similarly, if the alcohol reading drops to zero instantly, it is likely the device moving away from the skin or the substance evaporating, not metabolic elimination.

SCRAM Monitoring Duration in Texas

How long you'll be on SCRAM depends on your situation:

• Pretrial: Until your case is resolved, which can be 1-2 years in backlogged counties like Harris or Dallas.
• Probation (DWI):
• Standard: 6 months to 1 year, often half the probation term.
• Felony/Repeat: Up to the full probation term (5-10 years), though usually reviewed annually.

Early removal is possible but discretionary. Most judges require at least 50% completion of the monitoring period, zero violations, paid fees, and completion of any required treatment programs (SOP or IOP). The defense attorney files a "Motion to Modify Conditions of Probation" to request this.

Practical Considerations: Living with SCRAM

The SCRAM bracelet affects daily life:

• Hygiene: Showers are okay, but no baths, swimming, or hot tubs. Clean around the device gently with mild soap and water.
• Employment: The device is visible and can be a safety hazard in some jobs (construction, oil fields). Employers can fire you for wearing it.
• Travel: Requires a travel permit submitted two weeks in advance. You'll need your itinerary, address of stay, and prepaid monitoring fees. If using a landline base station, you must transport it. The TSA is familiar with SCRAM and will swab it for explosives.

In rural areas with poor cellular service you may require the defendant to use a landline-based base station or verify they have home internet (Ethernet) to transmit data.

Alternatives to SCRAM

While SCRAM is the gold standard, other options exist:

• Soberlink: A portable breathalyzer, often used in family court or for lower-risk probationers who need to travel.
• Random Urinalysis (UA): Traditional method, but less effective for monitoring alcohol due to its quick metabolism.

Safe Monitoring Solutions operates primarily in the Austin/Round Rock area (Travis and Williamson Counties), and positions itself as a more "client-friendly" alternative, emphasizing respectful interaction. Contact them at 512-730-0911.