Half of police breathalysers don't work

News > Transport

Half of police breathalysers don't work

Published: 21 Dec 2012 at 13.44
Online news: Transport

Police scrambled to defend their alcohol testing programme after scientists reported that almost half of the breathalysers they tested gave erroneous readings or did not work at all.

File photo by Sunthorn Pongpao

The breathalysers used by traffic police are up to standard because they are inspected every three to six months, said Vorasak Nopsittiporn, the deputy commissioner of the Metropolitan Police.

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bluebottle
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Discussion 8 : 21 Dec 2012 at 16.478
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Are we supposed to be surprised. Its par for the course nothing changes.Those procuring the items need bringing to task but I doubt they will.
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franklin
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Discussion 7 : 21 Dec 2012 at 16.367
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Blimps that crash, GT-200 so-called bomb detectors that rival a dowsing rod in reliability, cops who need suspects to put on a stage play re-enactment of their crimes so police can understanding and “get the picture”, security forces in the south that can’t provide security, period and now a breathalyzer that is faulty and unreliable. I have one question; what and who does work correctly, honestly and accurately as supposed to?
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joninnak
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Discussion 6 : 21 Dec 2012 at 15.296
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That's it Now the Ferrari driver will get off with the charge.
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yik
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Discussion 5 : 21 Dec 2012 at 15.055
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'52.3% breathalysers worked normally' a not overly convincing result.
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prhn
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Discussion 4 : 21 Dec 2012 at 14.574
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The end result is that probably hundreds of people have been charged, convicted & fined for incorrect readings.

Certificates should be available for those being tested to verify the correctness of the readings.

What will the courts & police do about those who have previously been falsely charged?

Nothing. As 50% of the fine goes directly to the police they will not be eager to repay it.
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CMfarang
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Discussion 3 : 21 Dec 2012 at 14.563
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Good to know if get stopped. Can show copy of this article in court.
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upena
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Discussion 2 : 21 Dec 2012 at 14.552
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There goes a bunch of court cases thrown out for uncalibrated equipment.
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porky
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Discussion 1 : 21 Dec 2012 at 14.421
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So it appears there have been many convictions for Drink Driving based on spurious evidence.

This GT200 all over again.
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Half of police breathalysers don't work | Bangkok Post: news