Cypresswood substation not making DWI videos.
I found it unbelievable last week during trial the that the Cypresswood substation located in Harris County, Texas does not have a working videotaping device for DWI cases. According to Constable Norris, a Corporal with the Harris County Constable Precinct 4's Office, it is common knowledge that this is occurring, but it is not up to the constable's office to get the device in working order. He is of the opinion that it is up to the Harris County District Attorney's Office to maintain the videotape machine in working order. That statement completely floored both prosecutors trying the case and is completely wrong. Most appalling, is that after speaking to other attorneys in the courthouse this is not the first time that this Constable has testified that a videotape was not made in a DWI case. Constable Norris understands the importance of a recording of someone ac cussed of DWI, but cavalierly dismissed the idea during trial. A DWI video not only allows a jury to see the accused for themselves, but allows a lawyer to review a police officer's actions during the tests. It is quite common that an officer does not explain the test correctly, or follow the specific guidelines developed. If an officer does this incorrectly the tests results are deemed invalid.
Since Kate Dolan, the Misdemeanor Division Chief, was in court during his testimony I am confident that she will look into this issue. The citizens of Harris County deserve much better!
If you need assistance with your DWI case please contact our law firm at (713) 242-1779 or visit our website at www.dwiattorneysinhoustoncom.
