Police Publish Mug Shots of Drunken Driver Suspects

[LancesMom]

Honolulu Police Publish Mug Shots of Drunken Driver Suspects on Web Site

Critic: 'Only Logical Explanation Is That They Want to Embarrass Somebody'

By MARY-ROSE ABRAHAM
Nov. 26, 2009

Drivers on the Hawaiian island of Oahu will have to contend with more than just stepped-up patrols and sobriety checkpoints this Thanksgiving holiday. Their photos may end up for all to see on the local police department's Web site.

A tabloid newspaper in Texas puts alleged lawbreakers front and center.

The Honolulu Police Department Wednesday began to post photos on its Web site of drivers suspected of drunken driving. In conjunction with its other traffic safety programs, the department inaugurated the program this week in advance of the holiday, when more drunken driving arrests are usually made.

"We are posting the photos to show that a drunken driver is not necessarily a known criminal," said Maj. Thomas Nitta, head of the traffic division for the Honolulu Police Department. "It could be your relative, your friend, your co-worker."

Good idea? or not?

[wife.and.mommy]

they do that where i LIVE.. but ONLY after a conviction

[sccowgirl]

In South Carolina police bookings are public record.  I say sure, maybe they'll be embarrased and think twice before getting behind the wheel drunk....just my opinion.

[CoeyG]

Some counties in California used to publish photos of the "John's " who frequented prostitutes as a deterrent.

[betsyab]

I think stiffer penalties would be even better...  But public humiliation is good too!

[mamapaparazzi]

I can see publishing those who are convicted of the crime, but not those who are simply suspected.  My very sober pregnant friend had a coughing fit on the highway and swerved a bit and was pulled over... she'd be pretty ticked if her pic ended up on some drunk driver page.