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MADD wants interlock for convicted drunk drivers

Posted at 5:04 PM, Jan 13, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-13 18:36:14-05

Police and Mother's Against Drunk Driving are making a push for more strict drunk driving laws in Maryland.

They want ignition interlocks put into cars of all convicted drunk drivers. The devices work as an in-car alcohol breath test and are designed to keep those under the influence of alcohol from starting their cars.

"We know that drunk drivers that when you suspend their drivers licenses sometimes drive. Having this interlock device, this will protect everybody. It will prevent them from being able to drive down the road,"  Capt. Tom Didone with Montgomery County Police, said.

The drive for legislation comes a month after Montgomery County police officer Noah Leotta who was killed by a suspected repeat drunk driver while working a special DUI assignment.

See also: Montgomery County officer dies after getting hit by suspected drunk, drugged driver

Current state law requires ignition interlocks for first-time offenders with a blood alcohol level of .15 or higher, which is nearly twice the legal limit of .08.

Interlocks are also required for those who drive drunk with a child in the car and for drunk drivers under the age of 21.