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Defective Breathalyzer Machines Mean Hundreds of DUIs in Ventura County Could Get Thrown Out
Intoximeter Alco-Sensor V
Breathalyzer machines used to gauge blood alcohol levels by authorities in Ventura County appear to have a defect, which means that hundreds of drunken driving convictions could get thrown out based on inaccurate readings, reports the VC Star . The county owns 128 machines, the Intoximeter Alco-Sensor V , which cost about $4,800 apiece.The breathalyzer machines have shown what the Ventura County DA's office call "erratic results" for tests administered between January 20 and March 31 of this year. They are working to determine how many DUI charges this will affect. The DA's office says they will work case by case to ascertain if the defective breathalyzer results were what led to DUI charges, or, in some cases, conviction.
Local law enforcement have ceased using the defective devices, and are instead using an older model for the time being.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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