|
The Goal:
To protect the public by reducing the recidivism
of hardcore drunk drivers.
The Strategy:
Mobilize an effective campaign to curtail hardcore drunk driving
based on a coordinated system of mutually reinforcing components. Special
criminal charges of Aggravated DWI and Hardcore DWI, with associated sanctions
and remedial treatment, can provide the focus for such a system.
The Rationale:
A coordinated system is necessary to provide the
framework needed to close loopholes in existing laws and programs, enact
needed legislation, and ensure that the responsible agencies and organizations
work together effectively to address the problem.
For those states choosing to adopt them, special charges reinforce
a coordinated system by requiring immediate identification and stipulating
appropriate punishment and treatment that, combined, act to reduce recidivism.
By calling attention to the serious nature of the crime, a higher level
charge acts as a general deterrent.
Objectives and Tactics:
Research shows that a system to deter, detect, punish
and change the behavior of hardcore drunk drivers should be based on swift
identification, certain punishment and effective treatment. An important
factor for success is an accountable statewide planning group or task
force, with representatives from pertinent state agencies and interested
organizations, to spearhead change and monitor effectiveness.
| 
