CRMJ 1805 DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST)
This comprehensive, performance-based course focuses on enhancing the officer's ability to detect, apprehend, and prosecute impaired drivers. The student will learn the three phases of the Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) detection process, with heavy emphasis on the scientific principles, standardized administration, and interpretation of the Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) battery: Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, Walk-and-Turn, and One Leg Stand. The course integrates legal considerations, note-taking, report writing, and trial testimony to ensure the proper collection and presentation of evidence ultimately fulfilling the goal of increasing deterrence of DWI violations. (3 lect.)
Major Topics
DWI detection process and legal environment
Vehicle in motion including cues and stopping sequence
Personal contact and interview
Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) battery
Evidence management, report writing, and trial preparation
Outcomes
In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:
1. Explain the three phases of the DWI detection process.
2. Explain the legal significance of the observations made during each phase.
3. Calculate the number of specific clues of impairment from the SFST battery to determine the likelihood of a Blood Alcohol Concentration of 0.08 or greater.
4. Justify an arrest decision based on the totality of the evidence while ensuring compliance with Fourth Amendment requirements.
5. Write a clear, descriptive, and legally sound DWI arrest report.
Other Information
Any information placed here must be adhered to by all instructors:
36 actual lecture hours, 4 lab hours of experiential learning.