Being placed on a GPS tether in Michigan is a serious legal matter. Whether it's a condition of bond, probation, parole, or early release, wearing a GPS tether (also known as an ankle monitor) means your movements are being tracked — and your compliance is being closely monitored.
Failing to follow the rules can result in severe consequences, including incarceration. This article outlines the key do’s and don’ts while on a GPS tether in Michigan to help you stay in compliance and avoid costly mistakes.
Do: Understand Your Restrictions
Your GPS tether will come with specific court-ordered rules — and they vary from person to person. Common restrictions may include:
- Curfews or house arrest
- Geographic boundaries (exclusion zones)
- Approved travel schedules
- Work and school-related movement permissions
Make sure you clearly understand your individual conditions. If you're unsure, ask your probation officer, attorney, or the monitoring agency for clarification.
Don’t: Tamper with the Device
Tampering with a GPS tether is a felony in Michigan. This includes:
- Attempting to remove or disable the device
- Covering it to block the signal
- Damaging it in any way
Even accidental damage can be treated as a violation. If there’s a problem with your device, contact your monitoring agency immediately.
Do: Keep the Device Charged
Most GPS tethers need to be charged regularly — often daily — using a wall charger. A low battery can trigger a violation alert.
Tips:
- Set a charging routine (e.g., overnight while sleeping)
- Avoid letting the battery drop below 20%
- Use only the charger provided by the monitoring agency
Don’t Leave Your Approved Areas without Permission
Leaving your approved zones or scheduled areas without prior authorization is considered a violation, even if it’s a short trip or an emergency.
If you need to go somewhere not on your schedule, always:
- Get written approval
- Notify your monitoring agent or supervising officer in advance
Do: Keep in Contact With Your Monitoring Officer
Frequent and clear communication is key to staying compliant. Report any changes to your:
- Address
- Phone number
- Work or school schedule
- Emergency situations (hospital visits, family emergencies, etc.)
Being proactive shows responsibility and helps avoid misunderstandings.
Don’t Ignore Alerts or Notifications
If your tether beeps, vibrates, or shows signs of malfunction, don’t ignore it. These alerts could mean:
- Low battery
- Signal loss
- Equipment failure
Failure to respond may be seen as noncompliance. Call your monitoring provider right away if you receive unexpected alerts.
Do Follow Rules for Alcohol or Substance Monitoring (If Applicable)
Some GPS tethers are combined with SCRAM alcohol monitoring or other substance detection features. These are often ordered in DUI, OWI, or domestic violence cases.
Make sure you understand:
- What substances are prohibited
- How the system detects alcohol or drug use
- Penalties for violations
Trusted Monitoring Solutions: EMS Tether
If you’re looking for a reliable provider of alcohol and electronic monitoring solutions in Michigan, EMS Tether is one of the state's leading suppliers. They provide GPS ankle tethers, SCRAM alcohol monitors, and a full suite of electronic monitoring services trusted by courts, attorneys, and individuals across the region.
EMS Tether is known for:
- Professional service and support
- Accurate, court-admissible reporting
- 24/7 customer assistance
- Fast setup and flexible monitoring solutions
Whether you need court-ordered equipment or you're an attorney or agency seeking dependable monitoring tools, EMS Tether delivers compliant, effective solutions you can trust.
Final Thoughts
Being on a GPS tether isn’t just about wearing a device — it’s about following a structured set of rules designed to monitor and manage your behavior. Staying compliant not only keeps you out of jail but also builds trust with the court and helps you move toward completing your legal obligations.
Stay informed. Stay responsible. And if you need monitoring support, trust professionals like EMS Tether to help guide you through the process.