NCJ Number
202250
Date Published
2002
Length
43 pages
Annotation
This document provides a review of national driving while intoxicated (DWI) programs and initiatives.
Abstract
Various States have tightened DWI sanctions and initiated more severe maximum jail sentences for DWI convictions, usually for drivers with multiple convictions over a specific period of time. Recent studies have shown that repeat DWI offenders are not deterred from drinking and driving by the threat of longer prison sentences. Felony sentencing laws place a strain on prison systems. States are seeking alternatives ways to deal with DWI offenders that are more effective in reducing recidivism rates and more efficient in the use of limited resources. Several States have turned to dedicated detention facilities for multiple DWI offenders as an alternative to already overcrowded traditional jail or prison facilities. These facilities provide alcohol education, treatment, and counseling in addition to confinement, and are often connected with community service, job, and aftercare programs. Ignition interlock programs are used in many jurisdictions, usually in conjunction with licensing sanctions. Ignition interlock devices measure a person’s alcohol level and will not allow the car to be started if the level is above a predetermined level. These devices can significantly reduce DWI recidivism while they are installed, though the long-term effect on hardcore offenders after the devices have been removed has yet to be determined. Removing a repeat DWI offender’s access to their vehicle is an approach that has been used in several States as a sanction for impaired driving offenses or for driving with a suspended license. Many States are strengthening their probation programs with electronic monitoring, surveillance, increased drug and alcohol testing, and risk assessment and treatment or counseling. Many jurisdictions have struggled with the level and type of treatment that should be made available to or required for DWI offenders. Treatment programs are thought to be most successful when combined with supervision and when completing the treatment program is a required condition for license reinstatement. Combined programs take advantage of several different types of sanctions and combine incarceration, probation, vehicle immobilization or ignition interlock, education, treatment, and community service. 7 tables, 13 references, addendum