DWI Repeat Offenders Pose Safety Risk
Posted by admin on 04.03.2012
In response to a growing number of DWI repeat offenders, Texas lawmakers recently passed stricter laws for individuals who have multiple DWI convictions. Most individuals who are convicted of a second DWI offense must install a breathalyzer interlock device in his or her car for a probationary period, for example. However, because this law was enacted less than a year ago, hundreds of repeat offenders continue to drive under the influence.
Julie Jones, the widow of Brent Jones, knows this better than most people. She and her husband were hit by Jack Strickland, a four-time DWI offender. Brent died almost immediately.
By some estimates, DWI offenders drive drunk about 80 times before they are convicted of drunk driving. Additionally, in America, there are about two million three-time DWI offenders on the roads who are not in jail. Unfortunately, Julie and Brent Jones’s story is not unique: almost 1,500 Texans die in alcohol-related crashes each year. If you have been involved in a car accident involving alcohol, you deserve a fair trial. Contact the McMinn Law Firm today.
APD Plans to Install Two Surveillance Cameras on Fourth Street
Posted by admin on 03.14.2012
APD’s HALO project has been in full swing since late 2011, when dozens of cameras were installed on Sixth Street and Rundberg Lane. HALO employs several full-time officers to watch the cameras in order to more efficiently direct officers. Recently, APD announced plans to install two more cameras downtown on Fourth Street.
The new cameras will be at the intersections of 4th St. and Trinity and 4th St. and Sabine. According to a statement released by an APD lieutenant, the police department hopes to eventually acquire access to cameras at almost every intersection in Austin. Currently, the HALO project, which costs almost $1,000,000 annually, is being funded from outside grants; APD only provides the officers.
The cameras have already been used to identify suspects and in court proceedings. If you need effective representation, contact The McMinn Law Firm today.
APD Pushes for New Red Light Cameras
Posted by admin on 03.06.2012
The Austin Police Department is considering adding up to six more red light cameras to dangerous intersections in Austin. Officials claim that since 2008 when the six existing cameras were installed, car crashes at the intersections have decreased by 44%.
APD has not yet decided how many cameras will be installed or where they will be installed, but in light of the recent pedestrian accidents, cameras may be watching intersections that are particularly dangerous for individuals who are walking or biking. Currently, each of the cameras cost about $5,000 per month to operate.
The surge in red light cameras follows the trend of camera installations that the Austin Police Department has adopted in the past few years. Currently, six red light cameras and 31 surveillance cameras are active within city limits, and APD is pushing to gain access to private companies’ surveillance cameras as well. Many Austinites are concerned about the civil rights issues that the cameras could bring.
Panel Reviews APD Wrongful Death Claims
Posted by admin on 03.01.2012
An independent review panel consisting of Austin citizens has recommended that the APD fire an officer involved in the deathof a 20-year-old man in May 2011. The man was shot and killed when a car driven by his 16-year-old friend struck a police officer. The panel’s decision could influence how APD handles the case and a lawsuit filed by the family of the deceased. Meanwhile, the Austin Police Union has launched an investigation regarding the panel’s decision, which was leaked to a local news source. The Union claims that the review panel’s statement was confidential information that could unjustly affect the outcome of the case.
The family of the man who was killed in May claims that the officer in question used excessive force against an unarmed, innocent civilian and are seeking damages for wrongful death. They are also calling for the dismissal of the officer involved.
Grieving a loved one is always a painful experience, but it’s especially distressing in the case of wrongful deaths. The McMinn Law Firm will advocate on your behalf to make sure your family receives the maximum compensation available. For more details, contact the McMinn Law Firm.
