Continuous Alcohol Monitoring May Help Reduce Sentencing or Secure Release
Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most commonly charged offenses in the country. Unfortunately, many people get arrested for multiple drunk driving charges within their lifetime. Jurisdictions throughout the United States and across the globe, have looked for ways to reduce drunk driving recidivism.
Researchers at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have found that one of the most effective ways to reduce repeat drunk driving offenses include continuous alcohol monitoring with swift sanctions for non-compliance. More and more courts are requiring alcohol testing as a condition of pre-trial release in alcohol-related crimes.
The SCRAM CAM device monitors for alcohol consumption 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for a given period. On average offenders are monitored from 120 to 180 days depending on if it is for pre-trial or post-conviction monitoring. The device is tamper-resistant giving alerts for any attempts to alter testing.
Law enforcement agencies, probation departments, and court monitors are notified quickly about any drinking events registered by the device, ensuring that swift action is taken for non-compliance. The device is used throughout the country and in a number of other countries.
In the effort to reduce DUI recidivism, SCRAM CAM devices have proven effective and helped to address underlying addiction issues. Offenders are held accountable for their sobriety and judges can rest assured that if they are drinking they will know about it.
More courts are adopting alternative sentencing options such as continuous alcohol monitoring in lieu of jail time in the hopes of tackling the root of the drinking. Time after time successful participants in 24/7 sobriety programs have said that being held accountable for their sobriety required them to make a complete lifestyle change.