The Skill To Defend You

New OMVI equipment but the same problems persist

The Indiana State Police recently announced the purchase of 777 portable breath test devices. However, this is the just the latest of an ongoing wave of more 2,600 portable devices purchased by law enforcement across the state since 2017.

Known to be more effective than past devices, one notable difference in the new Alco-Sensor FSTs is that they include passive sniffers that can detect alcohol in the air around a person or in an open container. With the holiday season now officially in full swing, this means that law enforcement will be able to better detect alcohol on drivers, those attending large public events or people simply out with friends around town.

Over 5,600 stops during the Thanksgiving holiday

According to news reports, law enforcement was out in force during the recent holiday, making 5,673 stops over the course of five days. This included 51 charges of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (OMVI). With holiday parties, end of the term parties, Christmas and New Years still to come, this is shaping up to be a busy time for these new breath test devices.

New devices but the same problem

Regardless of how effective these new devices are, human beings still operate them. Law enforcement can jump to conclusions, improperly operate the devices, forget proper legal protocols or make other mistakes. It is crucial to contact an attorney experienced in defending those accused of public intoxication or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. These professionals can help ensure that law enforcement does not overstep legal boundaries, particularly in applying the new passive sniffers.