The state of Hawaii started an experiment back in November 2009. The police department began posting pictures of DUI suspects on their website. Many are asking the question: “Doesn’t this practice violate the rights of the person who has been arrested for DUI?”

Supporters feel that anyone who gets stopped for DUI deserves to have their picture flashed across cyberspace. However, we join the critics who say the photo gallery stains a person’s reputation even before he or she has been proven guilty, assuming guilt, something that violates the very foundation of the legal system of this country.

The Hawaiian police department feels that the pictures are public record. The department argues that if people are aware that their picture will appear on the Internet, they might be less likely to drive under the influence. Defense attorneys in Hawaii are voicing strong doubts the strategy will stop anybody from getting behind the wheel. They believe that innocent people could be seriously hurt by the practice.

DUI Arrests Do Not Equal DUI Convictions

It is true that arrest records and photos have been considered public record for years, but publicizing images on a Police Department website is a relatively new scheme. You might think that Hawaii’s police department might be concerned about making enemies or having an impact on tourism, but there is no evidence that this is the case. They have stated that their goal is to embarrass anyone who is arrested for a DUI in the state, and they hope to reduce the number of DUI arrests.

Pictures of lawmakers and several stars from the ABC drama “Lost”, which is filmed locally, have joined the rosters of photographs posted on the Hawaiian police department website.

Florida DUI Photos Should Never Be Posted

This is happening in Florida, too.  We believe that pictures should not be posted–ever. We have represented many people who have not deserved their DUI arrest. That picture could be something that sticks with that person for the rest of their lives, ruining their ability to find work, tarnishing their reputation, and costing someone a job. What if that person were in a witness protection program? It could cost them their life.

DUI Arrest Is Already Embarrassing Enough

Posting pictures is unfair and unnecessary.  Most people have enough shame just from being arrested.  It is wrong to punish the many people who learn from their mistakes, for the few who don’t learn from their DUI arrests. We haven’t seen any studies or scientific articles that prove that posting pictures of people accused or convicted of a Florida DUI offense helps reduce future DUIs. Until that happens, we are solidly opposed to the idea!

Have you been accused of DUI in Sarasota? If so please fill out the form to the right or call 941-916-3627 for your free consultation. The Sarasota DUI attorneys at our firm will know exactly what path to take in pursuit of justice for you. Call us now.