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Police camera law awaiting governor approval

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New Jersey residents know that the laws in their area governing drunk driving are some of the harshest in the nation. Legislators and law enforcement officials indicate this is a means to improving public safety by reducing the threat of accidents involving drunk drivers. At the same time, it is also the responsibility of the legal and judicial systems to provide defense opportunities for those people accused of drunk driving, understanding that not all people arrested on DUI charges are actually guilty.

People can successfully be cleared of charges related to drinking and driving based upon many factors. Inappropriate use of protocol during an arrest may provide some opportunities for this. Additionally, misconduct on the part of arresting officers can also open up the doors to a DUI defense. This was the case for one state lawmaker in New Jersey. The man was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol in 2012 but later all charges against him were dropped and his record was cleared.

This happened after footage from a camera in the police car was entered as evidence. Based upon the video provided, the officer is facing multiple charges including incorrect reporting on police records. A bill is currently awaiting the governor’s signature by mid-August of this year. The law would require the installation of cameras in all police cars. The legislator involved in the 2012 DUI case has publicly stated his approval for this bill as a way to protect those accused of crimes.

People who are forced to undergo sobriety tests and who may face DUI or DWI convictions may wish to talk with an experienced DUI lawyer. Understanding the laws may be one way to find how to receive the right defense.

Source: MyFoxNY.com, “Lawmaker who faced DUI wants police car cameras,” Geoff Mulvihill, July 21, 2014

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