Usually, when a person violates a DUI (Driving under the Influence) for the second or third time, wearing a SCRAM bracelet becomes a court order. This is to ensure that the offender stays sober and does not get into another DUI. When a SCRAM bracelet detects alcohol, the offender might face another set of criminal consequences. Now, aside from its sensing of alcohol consumption, many are wondering: can a SCRAM bracelet detect drugs.
Read this article to learn more about how SCRAM bracelet works in Las Vegas and the rest of Nevada to help you whenever you are faced with such a situation.
What is a SCRAM device?
SCRAM stands for Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor and it is a device usually worn on the ankles. When it detects alcohol, a police officer assigned to the case will be called to assess the situation which is akin to a house arrest. The usage of SCRAM bracelets is implemented in Nevada and is mostly carried out as a DUI plea bargain deal.
How does a SCRAM bracelet work?
A SCRAM bracelet is a type of percutaneous alcohol monitor device and must be worn 24 hours a day. As it is fixed directly into the skin, it can easily absorb perspiration for testing. Normally it tests your skin for signs of alcohol consumption every 30 minutes.
Like we have established earlier, SCRAM devices are ordered by the court when the DUI offense was on its second or third round within seven years. However, first-time offenders can also get SCRAM bracelets when the case is too severe such as death is involved or it had escalated to a felony offense.
How long does an offender need to wear a SCRAM bracelet depends on the conditions laid down by the court. Depending on the risk of the offender consuming alcohol again, it can take months or even years.
Once the device detects alcohol in the skin, it will try to look for more signs actively. Once there are enough alcohol readings that render overwhelming alcohol consumption, the SCRAM device will transfer data to an agency in the form of a graph who will, in turn, analyze the readings. If the data shows prohibited alcohol consumption then the cops will be called to attend the area.
Can a SCRAM bracelet detect drugs?
As on its name, SCRAM bracelet can only detect alcohol and while it is possible to spot residues of drugs through perspiration, SCRAM bracelets are only designed for liquor. So if your question is “Can a SCRAM bracelet detect drugs?” the short answer is no.
Despite this, it is not advisable to take prohibited drugs while under SCRAM probation. There are many ways that your drug intake can still be discovered. One instance is when police officers go to your home for suspected alcohol consumption, if you have also taken drugs then there is a high possibility of the police officers spotting this. Another example is you driving while high on weed when police officers spotted you using while wearing SCRAM device it could mean weightier DUI penalties.
What are the possible charges for SCRAM violations?
Of course, alcohol consumption as detected by a SCRAM bracelet is punishable in the State of Nevada. When a detection is made, an arrest should follow. As most SCRAM situations are caused by plea bargains, the court can impose the prison sentence that was intended for you.
If you are planning to go around or drive, make sure that it is permissible by the conditions of the court. Tampering or trying to block the function of a SCRAM device is prohibited. Also make sure that you stay away from other substances that could result in false positives such as astringents, isopropyl alcohol, and more!
When you are convicted guilty of DUI, it is best to own up to its consequences such as putting on a SCRAM bracelet. Risking your good standing for what an hour of temporary stupor caused by alcohol or drugs is certainly not worth it, especially considering the graver penalties that could befall you. Got more questions about SCRAM bracelets and its ability (or lack of) to detect drugs? You can contact a Las Vegas DUI lawyer to help fill your queries!