Orange County Crime Lab Makes Errors in DUI Blood Tests

Recently, it has been reported that a crime lab in Orange County, California made mistakes in its blood alcohol tests. The inaccurate test results were due to a failure to input the proper data in the software of one of the testing machines. Hundreds of blood samples which were tested at the lab are now subject to question as to the accuracy of their results. The inaccuracies in the testing equipment have apparently been in operation since last May. 900 letters were sent out by the district attorney's office to people who had been convicted or pleaded guilty to driving while under the influence of alcohol based on the test results.

According to the crime lab, approximately 20 people were inaccurately reported to have .08 percent blood alcohol levels which is the legal limit. Their actual blood alcohol levels were .07 percent, which is not illegal per se although they could still be convicted if they demonstrated driver impairment. The Orange County District Attorney's Office, however, has stated that few DUI cases will change because of the inaccuracies because the errors in calculating the blood test readings were so small. Overall, about 200 cases will see slight adjustments in their blood readings, most of which will have little impact on their cases. Nevertheless, anyone arrested for DUI between April and October in Orange County may wish to consult their attorney as to whether or not the error at the crime lab affects them.

DUI and Criminal Defense in Orange County, California

If you are facing a DUI of any kind in the Orange County area, you are at risk for potential jail time, loss of your driver's license, fines, DUI school, and probation. Getting competent legal help should be your first priority. The attorney you select to represent you should be one who is experienced in DUI defense, which is a complex field of law involving scientific, medical, and legal factors. As you can see by the above story, mistakes can happen in forensic evidence as well as in police procedure which can lead to DUI arrests and charges which may not be valid.

The Law Office of Barney B. Gibbs serves clients in and around Orange County. Mr. Gibbs has practiced nothing but criminal defense for over 30 years. This amounts to more than 2,500 criminal cases of all kinds, from DUI to domestic violence, drug offenses, sex crimes, theft crimes, juvenile crimes, violent crimes, and more. Because of his concentration on criminal defense exclusively, Mr. Gibbs has the depth of experience and understanding that few others have and which can make a difference in the outcome of your case. Contact his firm to arrange for a free consultation as soon as possible.