Texas Renews Debate Over Sobriety Checkpoints

Proposed Law Allows Random Stops by Police

The North Texas Crime Commission released a legislative "wish-list" late last month, laying out their suggestions for improvement to Texas legal code. The number one proposed change was the removal of restrictions against sobriety checkpoints, a suggestion that sparked fresh debate amongst lawmakers at the Capitol.

The list may have caused a feeling a déjà vu amongst politicians; a law identical to that proposed by the Commission passed the Senate during last year's legislative session, but the House adjourned before it could come to a vote. Discussion of the bill was heated, as Texas is one of only eleven states in the United States to restrict checkpoints, which has been state policy since 1994.

Lawmakers Clash Over Privacy Versus Public Safety

Last year's debate came hard on the heels of a federal report listing Texas as having one the highest numbers of DWI related deaths per capita. The state has been grappling with the issue for several years, culminating in a series of deaths last year in Dallas that received nationwide media attention. Most infamous was the case of John Patrick Barton, convicted of two counts of murder last year, as he had received three prior DWI convictions.

In answer to increased national scrutiny, Senator John Carona (R-Dallas) wrote last year's bill, specifying that checkpoints would only become legal in cities with populations over 500,000. Despite failure the previous year, a new proposal has been gathering steam in the House. Supporters insist checkpoints would give police a chance to catch intoxicated driver before they endanger others.

As not everyone at the Capitol is convinced the changes are worth the violation of civil liberties. By the very nature of the checkpoints, police would necessarily be pulling over thousands of innocent drivers. Policy makers in the past have also raised doubts as to the efficacy of random checks, insisting that current investigative techniques are sufficient.

Find a DWI Lawyer Today

The only defense against increasingly strict DWI laws is aggressive and knowledgeable representation. If you or a loved one is arrested on suspicion of driving intoxicated, do not hesitate to contact a criminal defense attorney as quickly as possible. If you choose to secure the representation of the Zendeh Del Law Firm, you can trust that you will be given the support and guidance that you deserve as you seek to defend your rights.

Contact a Plano DWI attorney from the firm today for your initial case consultation!