In Colorado, DUI convictions are often hinged on the results of a certain breathalyzer machine. Known as the Intoxilyzer 9000, this machine measures alcohol levels in a person’s breath, and it is found in police stations and jails throughout the state. The results of the Intoxilyzer 9000 are verified by a technician’s signature from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, but now that verification process is being called into question.
Here’s What You Need to Know
On June 5, Gilpin County Judge David Taylor issued an order regarding the use of the Intoxilyzer 9000. Basically, the order called into question the validity of the signatures used to authenticate the test results. Judge Taylor cited the signatures as deceptive, misleading, and inaccurate.
The signatures, according to various defense lawyers, are easy to forge, and have supposedly been forged in a number of cases. Evidence obtained from the machines appears to support this claim. While Judge Taylor did not label the problem as outright fraud, his order does presuppose wrongdoing and deceptive practices in the criminal justice system.
What Effect Will the Order Have?
The court order means that any DUI conviction between July 2015 and January 2017 that used the Intoxilyzer 9000 may be scrutinized. An investigation by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is being conducted, but many are calling for Governor Hickenlooper to step in and conduct an external investigation. If forged signatures are revealed, the whole system could be called into question. This would provide a benefit for defense attorneys in Colorado who fight to hold the state accountable for deceptive criminal justice practices.
Orr Law Firm Defends Clients Facing DUI Charges
At Orr Law Firm, we are passionate about providing informative, aggressive legal services for clients facing DUI charges. Our Denver DUI lawyers can investigate your incident and defend your rights in court. We seek to hold the justice system accountable, and we can provide diligent representation as you seek a favorable outcome.
Contact our firm today for a free consultation.