An alcohol ankle monitor—also known as a SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor)—is an ankle bracelet consisting of two small boxes secured by a strap and worn 24 hours a day. A SCRAM monitors perspiration on the skin for alcohol content—similar to the way a breathalyzer test measures blood alcohol concentration. A SCRAM is tamper-resistant and if a person attempts to remove or tamper with it, the tampering will be detected and reported through the remote monitoring service.

A person who is out of jail on bond awaiting a DUI/DWI trial may be ordered to wear a SCRAM. And a person who has been convicted of a DUI/DWI criminal offense may be ordered to wear a SCRAM for some period of time—as a condition of probation, for example. A person convicted of a DUI/DWI criminal offense may also volunteer to wear a SCRAM in an effort to reduce the severity of the sentence.

In New Mexico (NM), a SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor) device may be used as a condition of bond or probation for individuals charged with or convicted of DUI/DWI offenses. The use of SCRAM is intended to monitor the individual's alcohol consumption and ensure compliance with court-ordered abstinence from alcohol. If a judge determines that it is appropriate, they may order the use of a SCRAM device either pre-trial or as part of a probationary sentence. Tampering with or attempting to remove the SCRAM device can result in penalties, including potential revocation of bond or probation and additional legal consequences. Additionally, some individuals may choose to wear a SCRAM voluntarily to demonstrate sobriety and potentially mitigate the severity of their sentence. The specific regulations and application of SCRAM devices in DUI/DWI cases can vary, and it is important for individuals to comply with all court orders and conditions related to the use of such monitoring devices.