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By FRANKLIN SCHMIDT
RapiMhutnock Staff Writer
The Rappahannock News is considering printing the names of all persons convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI) in the newspaper, highlighted in bold type. The names are currently being printed in the same type as all other traffic violation defendents as listed in General District Court proceedings.
In light of new state laws related to DWI’s, a growing public awareness and concern with the problem, and the increasing strength of citizen’s groups such as Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) and Students Against Drunk Drivers (SADD), the Rappahannock News staff believes it might be appropriate to call attention to those drivers convicted of the misdemeanor of DWI.
We asked three representative groups of the Rappahannock judicial system for their comments on this proposed action. We welcome readers’ comments and suggestions.
Peter Luke, Commonwealth Attorney: Peter Luke stated he “had no problem” with putting these offenders’ names in bold. “It should be brought to the public’s attention,” he said.
Luke thought “the public should be aware of the extent of the problem, the high number of arrests made, and the kinds of sentences they are getting.
Luke also stated that “when a person commits an offense the records are in the public domain. They have no room to complain. ”
Luke believes that if highlighting these people acts as a deterrent, it is a good idea and it is “good for people to become more conscious about the whole problem.”
Luke believes, however, that neither this nor the new laws are the general solution.
“There are more warrants coming in constantly for DWI’s. The only question is the repeat offender who probably couldn’t care less. But if (calling attention to them) helps with borderline cases, (such as) juveniles who are sensitive to peer pressure, then it will be worthwhile.”
Luke said that he would be thankful for any measure that would help get drunk drivers off the road.
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