Texas Deputy Police Chief Calling for Mandatory DWI Checkpoints
By: Ashley Hinson
Updated: December 5, 2012
A Texas Deputy Police Chief from San Antonio proposed the mandatory DWI checkpoints to Austin lawmakers on Monday.
State Rep. John Frullo is against the idea.
"I'm not for mandatory checkpoints," said Frullo. "I think it takes away freedom. We still live in Texas. We still live in the United States and I think it's important we are able to enjoy our freedom."
If passed, these mandatory stops would allow officers to perform DWI tests on drivers near drinking and driving "hot spots."
Frullo thinks there are other ways to combat that problem.
"Law enforcement they have probable cause and like I said they do a great job, they need to be able to use those tools and not tie up our resources in one particular area," Frullo said.
Statistics show that Texas has one of the highest drunk driving fatality rates in the nation.
"Drunk driving is a huge problem nationwide, but particularly in Texas we do have a huge drunk driving problem," said TABC Captain Mark Menn.
This year alone, drunk driving accidents claimed the lives of more than 1200 Texans.
However, Mr.Menn said it's a constitutional issue with multiple opinions.
"There's always a balance between public safety and public freedom," said Menn. "There's a lot of mixed feelings and emotions, but it is something the legislature might choose to introduce.
Another suggestion to legislators Monday was to add more "No Refusal" weekends. On those days, DWI suspects are required to undergo blood tests if they refuse a breathalyzer.
