Mississippi Department of Public Safety rolling out new breath alcohol testers statewide

Thinking about drinking and driving in Mississippi? You better think again as the Mississippi Department of Public Safety is rolling out new breath alcohol testers statewide.

Commissioner Sean Tindell announced that Intoxilyzer 9000 machines will be utilized by various law enforcement agencies throughout the Magnolia State. According to experts, the advanced breath alcohol tester has stellar performance in accuracy, precision, and interferent detection to determine the level of booze in one’s system.

“We are excited about this rollout and eager to get these machines to agencies across the state,” Tindell said. “As technology continues to evolve, it’s our responsibility to provide law enforcement with the most current tools to maintain and enhance public safety.”

This machine will replace the Intoxilyzer 8000 instruments which were purchased more than 20 years ago. The Intoxilyzer 9000 is a modern infrared-based breath alcohol instrument designed for mobile or stationary use.

According to officials, the process of acquiring the new equipment began last October and has continued to significantly progress. Distribution and training through the Mississippi Forensics Laboratory for the Intoxilyzer 9000 has begun, with four-hour training blocks offered to law enforcement representatives statewide.

Currently, 82 Intoxilyzer 9000 units are ready to be deployed to law enforcement agencies across Mississippi, and MDPS anticipates securing an additional 150 units soon.

“Over the recent months, we have worked diligently for this launch, and we are very happy that our go-live days are upon us,” Mississippi Forensics Laboratory Director Mary Jones Dukes said. “I would like to personally thank everyone that supported this project.”