Ankle Monitors: Gym Workouts And False Positives

Electronic ankle monitors are often used as an alternative to incarceration, allowing individuals to remain free while awaiting trial or as a condition of probation. These monitors track the wearer's movement and location, ensuring they adhere to specific conditions set by the court. While they are designed to be tamper-proof, there have been reports of false alarms and malfunctions, which can lead to further complications and even result in a return to jail. In this context, it is important to understand why ankle monitors may go off in gyms, causing potential embarrassment and triggering unnecessary alerts.

Gyms may be outside the allowed radius

Ankle monitors are used to ensure that the wearer stays within the boundaries set by the court. This could include sticking to a specific area, such as remaining within a certain radius of their home.

If a court-ordered ankle monitor wearer wishes to visit a gym, they must first ensure that the gym is within their permitted radius. If the gym is outside of this allowed radius, the wearer may be at risk of violating their bond terms, which could result in facing jail time.

It is important to note that the terms and conditions of ankle monitor usage can vary depending on the wearer's situation. While some may have restrictions on their movements, others might have conditions such as avoiding certain people or adhering to a curfew.

For those who are required to stay within a specific radius, it is crucial to be mindful of the boundaries set by the court. In some cases, the ankle monitor may emit a loud tone or vibration to notify the wearer that they are about to leave the designated area. If the wearer does not return to the designated area, the device will send an alert to the authorities.

Therefore, if the gym is outside the allowed radius, the ankle monitor wearer must seek permission from the relevant authorities or risk violating the terms of their release.

Sweat alcohol tests

The principle behind sweat alcohol testing is based on the fact that sweat glands are positioned close to circulating blood, allowing a small amount of ethanol to pass into the sweat. By collecting sweat through patches or sensors, it is possible to measure the concentration of ethanol or EtG, which correlates with the individual's BAC. This method provides an objective index of drinking behaviour and can be useful in clinical practice, research, and monitoring abstinence or relapse.

One study evaluated the sweat-patch test's ability to detect alcohol consumption over an 8-day period. Volunteers drank whisky while wearing sweat patches, and the results showed a progressive increase in ethanol concentration in the sweat as the amount of alcohol consumed increased. Another study developed a wearable biochemical sensor that detects and quantifies EtG in human sweat. The sensor uses gold and zinc oxide electrodes and can detect alcohol consumption of up to 11 standard drinks over a period of 4 to 9 hours.

Sweat alcohol testing offers several advantages. Firstly, it is non-invasive and can be used to monitor alcohol consumption continuously and in real time. Secondly, it overcomes the limitations of breath alcohol tests, which can be affected by factors such as mouthwash or diabetes. Thirdly, sweat testing can detect alcohol consumption for up to 24 hours after a drink or up to several days after heavier consumption, making it useful for detecting relapses and monitoring abstinence.

However, there are also some limitations to sweat alcohol testing. The delay in ethanol transfer from blood to sweat, which can take about 10 to 15 minutes, may affect the accuracy of the test if the individual has recently consumed alcohol. Additionally, the presence of interferents in sweat, such as ionic compounds, may impact the performance of the sensors over time. Nevertheless, sweat alcohol testing holds promise as a tool for monitoring alcohol consumption and could potentially replace breathalysers in the future.

Signal blocked by gym equipment

Gym equipment is made of metal, and some metals can interfere with the signal of electronic devices. This is why mobile phones, for example, are advised to be put on airplane mode when at the gym. The same goes for ankle monitors. The metal in gym equipment can block the signal of the ankle monitor, which can cause it to go off.

The signal of an ankle monitor is transmitted to a base unit, which is usually located in the home of the wearer. If the wearer goes outside of the designated area, the device will vibrate and emit a loud tone. If the wearer does not return to the designated area, the device will send an alert to the authorities.

The ankle monitor's signal can be blocked by metal, which is why it is important to be mindful of the surroundings when wearing one. It is also important to note that the level of water resistance can vary, and while ankle monitors are waterproof, the signal may be weaker or blocked when swimming or in a whirlpool bathtub.

To avoid any issues with the ankle monitor, it is recommended to keep it charged and within the designated area. It is also important to be mindful of the surroundings and avoid metals that can interfere with the signal.

Inconvenience of charging

The inconvenience of charging an ankle monitor is a significant issue for those who wear them. The charging process can be cumbersome and time-consuming, impacting the daily routines and activities of the wearer. For example, those with ankle monitors may need to set aside dedicated time each day to ensure their device is adequately charged. This dedicated time could be spent on other activities, such as work, education, or socialising.

Additionally, the charging process itself may require specific conditions to be met. For instance, some ankle monitors must be charged for a minimum of two hours daily, and failure to comply with these rules may result in legal consequences. The charging requirements can be restrictive, as individuals must remain connected to a power source for the specified duration. This restriction limits mobility and can be particularly challenging for those with active lifestyles or jobs that require travel.

The charging process also necessitates access to a consistent power supply, which may pose challenges for those with unstable housing or limited access to electricity. Furthermore, the financial burden of charging falls on the wearer, adding to the existing cost of the device itself. This financial strain can be exacerbated for those who are already facing economic challenges or struggling to pay off their debt to society.

The inconvenience of charging an ankle monitor extends beyond the practical aspects of daily life. The constant reminder of being monitored can cause significant psychological distress, exacerbating feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. The charging process serves as a regular, unavoidable reminder of one's restricted freedom, potentially impacting their mental health and overall well-being.

Overall, the inconvenience of charging an ankle monitor goes beyond the simple act of plugging a device into a power outlet. It encompasses the disruption of daily routines, the imposition of strict charging requirements, and the psychological toll of constantly navigating life within the confines of electronic monitoring.

Stigma and embarrassment

Ankle monitors can cause significant stigma and embarrassment for those who wear them. The devices are bulky and hard to hide, leading to social isolation and stress. People with ankle monitors are often stigmatized and judged by others, and may feel embarrassed or ashamed about their situation. This can cause them to avoid social situations and lead to depression and anxiety.

The constant surveillance and restrictions on movement that ankle monitors entail can be extremely limiting and frustrating for the wearer. They may no longer be able to participate in activities they once enjoyed, such as going to the gym, attending social events, or even just buying soap or clothes. This sense of loss and the constant reminder of their past mistakes can take a significant toll on their mental health.

In addition, the financial burden of paying for the monitor can be significant, with daily fees ranging from $3 to $35, as well as initial setup charges of up to $200. This can be especially challenging for individuals who are already struggling financially or trying to support a family.

The stigma and embarrassment associated with ankle monitors can also impact the wearer's ability to find or keep a job. The monitors are hard to conceal, and employers or colleagues may discriminate against them. This can lead to further financial strain and a sense of shame.

Furthermore, the process of having to constantly charge the device and ensure it is functioning properly can be stressful and time-consuming. Wearers may worry about false alarms or technical issues that could result in their returning to jail, even if they have done nothing wrong. This constant fear and anxiety can greatly impact their quality of life.

Overall, the stigma and embarrassment caused by ankle monitors can have far-reaching consequences on multiple aspects of a person's life, including their mental health, social relationships, employment, and financial situation. It is important to recognize the potential harm caused by these devices and to consider less restrictive alternatives that balance the need for surveillance with the wearer's right to privacy and dignity.

Frequently asked questions