What should an officer do if the arrestee's breath test shows a BAC of .08% or higher?

When an officer encounters an arrestee whose breath test indicates a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher, the appropriate course of action is to initiate an immediate suspension. This is significant because a BAC at or above this threshold is typically the legal limit for driving under the influence in many jurisdictions.

The intention behind this action is to ensure public safety; operating a vehicle while impaired poses a serious risk not only to the individual but also to the general public. By initiating immediate suspension, the officer is taking steps to prevent the arrestee from driving and potentially causing harm to themselves or others on the road. This decisive measure is aligned with law enforcement protocols aimed at tackling impaired driving and promoting road safety.

Other actions, such as simply completing a report for future reference or providing rehabilitation options, do not address the immediate need for safety and enforcement of the law regarding impaired driving. Additionally, releasing the arrestee immediately disregards the legal implications of having a BAC at or above the threshold, potentially allowing them to reenter the roadway without intervention.