Breathalyzer Calibrates Wrong Alcohol Levels

416 people were arrested on suspicion of DUI using the broken machine, the evidence won't be used in court.

A Breathalyzer machine used by Philadelphia police to test the blood-alcohol level of 416 drivers arrested on suspicion of drunken driving was improperly calibrated. That means the evidence won't be used at their trials, according to KYW-TV.

The machine was used between November and February, and because it was not calibrated properly, the District Attorney's Office says the results won't be used in court cases. Defense lawyers whose clients were convicted or pleaded guilty, can request new trials.

The police department notified the District Attorney's office on Feb. 25 about the problem.

D.A. spokeswoman Tasha Jamerson told the Philadelphia Daily News that there are no plans to dismiss pending cases.

The machine, which is no longer being used, was one of seven that the police department used.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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