County May Be First to Test-Drive DWI Fighter
Bernalillo County, NM, commissioners are considering a proposal to work with TruTouch Technologies, an Albuquerque company that is developing a device that detects alcohol levels by shining light into skin and measuring what bounces back.
The $494,000 agreement would authorize Bernalillo County sheriff’s deputies to test the device, which proponents say is less intrusive than a Breathalyzer or a blood test and may be quicker as well.
TruTouch is hoping the test will help it fine-tune how the technology will work in the real world. According to Jim McNally, chief executive officer and board chairman of TruTouch, sheriff’s deputies will offer advice, point out any problems, and help shape what features should be included in the device.
However, before the Sheriff’s Department can begin using the device, it will have to undergo testing from the state and federal governments.
Abstracted by the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center (NLECTC) from the Albuquerque Journal (02/27/07) P. C2; McKay, Dan.