Table of Contents

Introduction

• Issue #1:  What are the major problems encountered in processing a drug-impaired driving case through the criminal justice system?

  1. More law enforcement resources need to be dedicated to stopping impaired drivers.
  2.  Law enforcement officers often do not have sufficient training to assist them in recognizing symptoms of drug impairment in drivers.
  3.  There is often poor documentation of the signs and symptoms of drug intoxication that are needed to make a convincing case in court.
  4.  Existing DRE programs are underused, understaffed, and not well coordinated.
  5.  There is no standardization of practices in toxicology laboratories supporting DUID programs.
  6.  There is no clear correlation between blood drug concentrations and impairment for many drugs.
  7.  Forensic toxicologists are not well prepared to testify as experts in DUID trials.
  8.  Prosecuting attorneys are ill-prepared to argue technical DUID evidence in court.
  9.  Prosecuting attorneys don’t know where to turn for advice on presenting DUID cases.

• Issue #2:  Are current laws optimally structured to deter DUID?
• Issue #3:  What resources currently exist to promote informed and effective DUID prosecution, and how can they be used more effectively?
• Issue #4:  What should be the priority activities of stakeholders in advancing the enforcement and prosecution of drug-impaired driving?

Appendix I