Grand Jury Investigates Alleged Mishandling Of DWI Cases

Houston Crime Lab Supervisor Questions Efficacy Of Breathalyzer Analysis

In an investigation that continues unfolding, a grand jury recently began to investigate allegations of alleged mishandling of DWI cases in Harris County.

The uproar began when a highly placed supervisor of a Houston crime lab went to reporters with allegations that commonly used methods for testing blood alcohol toxicology have glaring flaws that call into question their use in criminal investigations. The former supervisor claims that there are flaws in the accuracy of breath analysis conducted by the BAT, or breath alcohol testing, vans. Evidence gleaned from the use of these vehicles is commonly used to convict suspects accused of DWI in Houston.

The validity of these tests was further challenged by the actions of the Harris County District Attorney herself. She recommended cancelling a contract with a laboratory at Lone Star College, where breathalyzer test results have been analyzed for decades. Perhaps most damning, the DA made comments in an interview urging control of DWI testing to be taken out of the hands of the Houston Police Department, citing concerns over their ability to conduct them properly.

"I want the Texas Department of Public Safety to supervise the technicians," the DA told reporters, "so that we can be assured that everything is done according to protocol."

Prosecutors Sought For Questioning By Grand Jury In Houston

Due to the growing concern over law enforcement and prosecutor's potential mismanagement of these cases, the 185^th Harris County criminal court grand jury has begun an investigation into the matter. They are looking into evidence that the DA's office withdrew the contract with Lone Star College out of retaliation for the initial whistle-blower in the Houston crime lab, who had recently left that position and been hired at the college.

The grand jury called three assistant district attorneys in for questioning regarding the incident, as well as a judge who used to work as a DWI prosecutor. They are also believed to be seeking evidence that the DA's office may have attempted a to cover up their mishandling of DWI evidence. If they do find that prosecutors have engaged in criminal misconduct, it could call into question the results of every recent DWI case in Houston over the past few years.

Seek A Houston DWI Defense Lawyer Right Away

With increasing concerns that blood alcohol testing results may be tainted, it is more important than ever that you seek the aid of a dedicated Houston DWI defense attorney as soon as possible. Should you be charged with accusations of driving while intoxicated, you need a trained professional to help you contest the results of your toxicology results. At the The Martinez Law Firm, we have seen time after time how prosecutors crack down hard on defendants accused of DWI crimes. We have the experience and toughness necessary to provide a skilled defense on your behalf.

Please, contact a Houston DWI attorney at The Martinez Law Firm to discuss your options ASAP!