Steele County Probation Services uses the Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring (SCRAM) system for the monitoring of some clients' compliance with an order to abstain from the use of alcohol.

The SCRAM bracelet is a non-removable device that is worn around the ankle.  The SCRAM bracelet test's an individual's insensible perspiration for the presence of alcohol.  Readings are gathered every thirty minutes 24 hours per day.

The SCRAM bracelet is primarly used as a condition of pre-trial release, as a condition of probation, or as a consequence for violating probation.  The SCRAM program was established in Steele County in August 2009.  As of June 2011, Steele County Probation Services has served 134 SCRAM clients.  There have been only 15 confirmed violations.

The SCRAM bracelet costs $8 per day.  Steele County Probation Services requires that the client pay the first two weeks up front ($112).  Payments can only be made by cashier's check or money order.