A policy designed to crack down on driving while intoxicated in Tarrant County is implemented year-round. Previously, the "no refusal" policy was only in effect on selected weekends and holidays with higher incidents of DWI.
The policy was adopted in 2008. It allows police officers or sheriff's deputies to get a warrant to draw blood from a DWI suspect who refused a breathalyzer test.
"In the past, we focused on specific weekends. Drinking and driving is a full-time challenge," said Tarrant County District Attorney Sharen Wilson. "Our police chiefs agree it is best for our community and the safety of our citizens to be 'no refusal' all the time."
The District Attorney's office will work with the Tarrant County Sheriff's Office to provide expedited judicial warrants and centralized blood-draw locations. The policy will be in effect for all of Tarrant County and all 41 cities within the county.
