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State officials work to develop tools to stop repeat DWI offenders

On Behalf of | Dec 16, 2011 | Drunk Driving, Firm News |

The state of Louisiana is currently developing a system to connect law enforcement and court systems, giving them better ability to track down drunk drivers, particularly those with multiple DWI violations.

The new system is, in part, a response to a recent batch of deaths involving drivers with multiple DWI violations. It is hoped the new system will help law enforcement keep repeat offenders off the road.

According to the executive Director of Louisiana’s District Attorney’s Association, the current system is “inconsistent, incomplete and erroneous,” due to the fact that not all arrests and court rulings are readily available. What is sought is a system which will put current records at the fingertips of law enforcement and prosecutors

While the new system would certainly be beneficial in battling drunk driving in Louisiana, it will apparently also be beneficial for law enforcement and prosecutors in a number of different types of cases, including domestic violence, rape, and child abuse.

Sources said the Louisiana District Attorney’s Association will be considering in February whether to suggest that state lawmakers adopt new laws to allow drunk and impaired drivers who have had their licenses suspended for a year to obtain exemptions after 45. The conditions for the exemption would be to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle and to enroll in a treatment program.

It isn’t clear what would become of such a suggestion, but at least some judges are in support of such a measure.

Source: shreveporttimes.com, “State moves to stop multiple DWI drivers,” Mike Hasten, December 12, 2011.

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