Camera makes it tougher for drunks to fool ignition device

OLYMPIA - It will be tougher now for persons under DUI penalty to fool the on-board device that keeps them from driving their vehicles when they're consuming.

The Washington State Patrol reports that alcohol ignition interlocks have a new feature designed to prevent others from performing breath tests for offending drivers. As of Jan. 1, a camera will snap a picture every time the machine is used, verifying whether the driver is the person who took the test.

"We've had cases where impaired drivers asked passengers, friends or even children to take the test for them," said Lt. Rob Sharpe, commander of the Washington State Patrol's Impaired Driving Section. "We've even heard stories of people trying to use portable air compressors to take the test."

"We do make personal visits to drivers if we have evidence they have tried to fool the machine," Sharpe added. "Having a picture will be the best possible evidence that someone was trying to cheat."

Washington has an Ignition Interlock License. It allows those whose drivers' licenses would normally be suspended to drive legally. It is an acknowledgment that those accused or convicted of impaired driving have jobs and family obligations that require a car.

"History taught us that these people were going to drive anyway," said Captain Rob Huss, commander of WSP's Office of Government and Media Relations. "The Ignition Interlock License gives them a way to drive legally, but gives the rest of us some assurance that they're sober and safe."

Drivers can lose their Ignition Interlock License by attempting to fool the machine, and the photographs will provide new accountability for those trusted with the license, Huss said.