Why We Built the myCAMprogram
And Why It Could Make All the Difference for You
An article for participants in the myCAMprogram
Jan Semenoff, BA, EMA
Forensic Criminalist
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Article information:Article - 650 words (approximately 3-4 minutes)
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When the Device Says You Drank — And You Didn’t
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If you’re wearing an alcohol monitoring device — whether it’s an ankle monitor or an ignition interlock — you already know how much is at stake. A single “positive” reading can mean jail time, loss of custody or visitation rights, a violation of bail or probation, or losing your job if you work in a safety-sensitive position.
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But here’s what most people don’t realize: these devices are not perfect. They can produce inaccurate results. And in many cases, those results are treated by the system as proof — even when they’re wrong.
The problem? Almost no one wearing these devices has been given proper training in how they work, what can cause a false positive, or how to protect themselves.
Why That’s a Serious Risk
You’ve been handed complex technology — ankle monitors, ignition interlocks, or transdermal alcohol sensors — and told to “just follow the rules.” The “training” you might have received when the device was installed probably lasted five minutes, maybe a short video or a single page to read and initial. That’s not enough to keep you safe.
And when something goes wrong? You are often left to prove your innocence without the tools or knowledge to do so. This can happen quickly, unexpectedly, and with devastating consequences.
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That’s Why We Created MyCAMprogram
MyCAMprogram is a science-based training initiative designed specifically for people like you who are required to wear an alcohol monitoring device. It’s built by independent experts in forensic alcohol testing — not by the device manufacturers or monitoring agencies.
Let's face it... The "training program" you received when the ankle bracelet was locked in place, or the ignition interlock installed in your vehicle, is designed to protect the CAM device manufacturer, or the monitoring agency... NOT you. Maybe a five minute video... maybe a sheet they read over and you initialed.
We teach you:
- How your device actually works — from fuel cell breath sensors to transdermal alcohol monitoring.
- What causes false positives — including common medical conditions, skin products, diet, and environmental exposures.
- How to protect yourself — with practical, daily strategies to avoid contamination.
- How to document your actions and exposures — so you have evidence to support your case if needed.
What Makes This Different from the Training You Got Before
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The information you’ll learn in MyCAMprogram is designed to protect you, not the manufacturer or monitoring agency. We show you the science behind the rules, and explain why they matter
Other programs give you a checklist and expect you to follow it blindly. We explain:
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MyCAMprogram was built to prevent that damage before it happens.
What You’ll Get in the Program
The MyCAMprogram includes:
- Clear, structured lessons on alcohol testing technology.
- Common risk scenarios and how to avoid them.
- Documentation tools to track possible exposures or issues.
- Printable resources you can show to your supervision officer or bring to court.
Why It Matters to You
If you’ve ever worried about:
- A device malfunction being mistaken for drinking
- A sudden spike on your BrAC or TAC reading that you can’t explain
- How to defend yourself if you’re accused of violating your program
Continuous Alcohol Monitoring programs have become a common component of alcohol-related criminal justice practices, offering a method for tracking offenders' alcohol consumption and ensuring compliance with court orders. With elements like real-time data collection, tamper-resistant devices, and the ability to enforce consequences for non-compliance, CAM programs provide an alternative to traditional incarceration, while also helping to reduce the risk of recidivism.
The number of people participating in CAM programs continues to rise each year, with hundreds of thousands currently enrolled in these programs. As technology and public attitudes toward rehabilitation continue to evolve, CAM programs are expected to play an increasing role in the justice system.
The Bottom Line
Continuous Alcohol Monitoring (CAM) programs are now a regular part of the justice system. They are meant to track alcohol use and ensure compliance, but they are not perfect. Each year, hundreds of thousands of people are enrolled in these programs. Many face false positives and unfair consequences simply because they were never taught how to protect themselves.
MyCAMprogram exists to change that. It gives you the knowledge, skills, and evidence you need to live with your monitoring device safely — and to make sure that if something does go wrong, you’re ready to prove the truth.
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