Minnesota BCA Halts Use of DataMaster Breath Tests: What This Means for DWI Cases
Statewide Concerns Over Data Errors
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has ordered all law enforcement agencies to stop using DataMaster breath test machines until they can confirm that the maintenance and calibration requirements have been done correctly. This monumental decision to eschew the evidentiary breath test for now follows reports from multiple counties – including Aitkin, Winona, Chippewa, Olmsted, and Hennepin – that discovered potential errors affecting the accuracy of breath alcohol concentration readings. The result – suppression of the DMT breath tests and dismissal of criminal cases.
According to the BCA, the problems stem from human error during the data entry process. In some cases, the wrong calibration cylinder was used; in others, critical information from the control gas was entered incorrectly. Regardless, these errors directly affect the reliability of test results. Moving forward, the BCA has now taken over maintenance and oversight of the DataMaster devices statewide, removing this from the local precincts. This result, though, does not impact the hundreds of cases that utilized a possible faulty DMT machine.
Hundreds of DWI Tests Potentially Compromised
As of today’s date, we already know that this issue has impacted hundreds of criminal and civil implied-consent cases across Minnesota.
- In Hennepin County, 38 cases are potentially affected.
- In Olmsted County, 108 cases are under review.
- Winona and Aitkin Counties have already acknowledged compromised results and dismissed certain charges.
These are the preliminary numbers, and we full anticipate the number of cases to continue to climb in the weeks and months to come. And these revelations echo long-standing concerns among defense attorneys: even “scientific” breath testing devices depend on human accuracy, calibration, and documentation. When that process breaks down, the test results – and the charges built on them – can’t be trusted.
Why This Matters for DWI Defendants
For anyone facing a DWI charge in Minnesota, the reliability of the evidence is everything.
A breath test result is often the centerpiece of the prosecution’s case – but if that evidence is flawed, the case can collapse.
At North Star Criminal Defense, our attorneys diligently review, and challenge, where appropriate, the accuracy and admissibility of evidentiary breath tests. We’ve seen firsthand how improper calibration, outdated maintenance records, or data entry mistakes can result in wrongful charges – or even wrongful convictions.
These new revelations from the BCA only reinforce the importance of experienced defense counsel who knows how to uncover and expose these kinds of errors.
How North Star Criminal Defense Can Help
If you or someone you know was charged with DWI in Hennepin, Olmsted, Aitkin, Winona, or any Minnesota county, your case could be affected by this DataMaster issue.
Our team can:
- Review your test records for potential errors
- Investigate whether your case involves one of the affected machines
- File motions to suppress or dismiss based on faulty testing data
- Work toward restoring your driving privileges and protecting your record
Our track record of creative, technical, and successful DWI defense speaks for itself.
Contact North Star Criminal Defense
The situation is still evolving as the BCA continues its statewide inspection of all DataMaster instruments. But one thing is clear: trust in these machines has been shaken and every recent DWI case deserves a closer look.
If you’re unsure whether your case might be affected, contact us for a free, confidential consultation today.