Strategies To Secure Ankle Monitors: Preventing Unwanted Movement

Ankle monitors, also known as tethers, GPS ankle monitors, or house arrest bracelets, are often used as an alternative to jail time for individuals charged with minor crimes. They are also used to ensure that an individual considered a flight risk stays within the boundaries set by the court. These devices are designed to be tamper-resistant and will notify authorities if they are removed or if the wearer moves outside of a designated area. While the terms and conditions for wearing an ankle monitor can vary, they typically include requirements such as maintaining employment, complying with supervision conditions, paying court fees, regularly meeting with a probation officer, and abstaining from drugs and alcohol.

Wear loose-fitting clothing

If you are wearing an ankle monitor, it is important to wear loose-fitting clothing to ensure your comfort and to prevent the monitor from moving around. This is particularly important to avoid chafing and skin irritation.

For men, the best option is to wear straight-leg dress, cargo, or sweatpants. Slim-cut jeans should be avoided as they are more likely to be tight around the ankle and cause discomfort. A wider-leg jean can also work, but these often need to be paired with chunkier shoes, such as thick trainers or work boots.

Women have more options due to current fashion trends, with wide-leg pants and loose joggers being good choices. Again, anything skin-tight or exposed should be avoided.

In addition to loose-fitting clothing, there are other ways to keep your ankle monitor comfortable and secure. Ankle monitor covers, for example, can prevent movement and chafing while also disguising the monitor as a regular ankle brace. Pulling a long sock over the monitor is another way to keep it snug and comfortable.

Use lotion

If you have to wear an ankle monitor, you may be looking for ways to make the experience more comfortable.

Check the fit

To keep an ankle monitor from moving, it is important to check the fit. A snug fit is crucial to ensure the device stays in place and functions optimally. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure a proper fit:

First, ensure that the monitor is securely attached to your ankle. You should be able to move your ankle freely and comfortably without the device slipping off. A proper fit will prevent unnecessary movement of the monitor, reducing the risk of accidental slippage or tampering. It is important to strike a balance, as a monitor that is too tight can cause discomfort and skin irritation.

You can enhance the fit by using moleskin, a soft adhesive padding available at most drugstores. Cut a small piece of moleskin and attach it to your skin before securing the monitor. This will provide added grip and help keep the device in place. Additionally, consider applying lotion to the skin around the monitor to prevent dryness and irritation. This can also assist in maintaining a comfortable fit.

It is also important to choose appropriate clothing that won't interfere with the monitor. Avoid tight or constricting garments around the device, as these can cause chafing and irritation. Opt for loose-fitting options that allow for unrestricted movement and breathability.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your ankle monitor is fitted securely and comfortably, reducing the chances of it moving or slipping off. Remember, it is essential to maintain the functionality of the device to comply with the conditions set by the court or parole officer.

Use adhesive padding

Adhesive padding is a great way to keep your ankle monitor in place and prevent it from slipping. This method is especially useful if you have a tendency to move around a lot or engage in activities that cause the monitor to shift. Here are some tips on how to use adhesive padding effectively:

Firstly, you'll need to get your hands on some moleskin, which is a type of soft adhesive padding. Moleskin is readily available at most drugstores or pharmacies. It's often used to prevent blisters when wearing new shoes, but it can also be handy for keeping your ankle monitor securely in place.

Once you have the moleskin, cut a small piece that's slightly larger than the surface of the ankle monitor that will be in contact with your skin. Clean and dry the area around your ankle where you'll be placing the adhesive padding. This ensures that the moleskin adheres properly to your skin.

Peel off the backing of the moleskin to expose the adhesive side. Carefully position the adhesive padding on your skin, making sure it's centred and doesn't overlap with the edges of the monitor. Press it gently but firmly onto your skin, smoothing out any air bubbles or creases.

After attaching the moleskin, you can proceed to put on the ankle monitor, ensuring that it's snug but not too tight. The adhesive padding will create friction and prevent the monitor from sliding or shifting as you walk or move.

It's important to note that you should replace the adhesive padding regularly, especially if it starts to lose its stickiness or becomes dirty. Removing the old moleskin and applying a fresh piece will ensure that your ankle monitor remains secure. Additionally, remember to keep the area clean and dry to maintain the adhesion of the padding.

Avoid tampering

Ankle monitors are tamper-resistant, but not impossible to remove. However, tampering with an ankle monitor can result in immediate arrest. So, if you are thinking of tampering with your ankle monitor, it is important to think twice.

Firstly, do not cut the strap, tamper with the strap or device, hit or bang the device, or submerge the device in water. All of these actions will be considered violations of your monitoring agreement and could result in an arrest.

Secondly, do not try to block the GPS signal. This can be done by wrapping the device in aluminium foil or using a GPS jammer, but both methods are illegal and can result in serious penalties.

Thirdly, do not try to remove the battery. This will usually stop the device from transmitting a signal, but it is also likely to be detected and could be considered a violation.

Finally, do not place the ankle monitor inside a Faraday bag. This is a bag that blocks all radio frequencies, including the GPS signal that the monitor uses to track your location. While this may be tempting, tampering with your ankle monitor is against the law in most states and will result in additional penalties.

Frequently asked questions