June 30, 2016
The Philadelphia Police Department acknowledged on Thursday that the city's breathalyzer instruments were accidentally tested using an expired solution earlier this year.
In a press release, Lt. John Stanford said the department was notified by a private attorney about the discovery of the expired solution used in the test. All of the instruments were immediately removed from service, retested with a new solution and returned to service on Wednesday.
State guidelines mandate that the test be completed once annually.
"Earlier this year our instruments were tested, but due to human error, an expired solution was used during that test," Stanford said. "Although the solution was expired, the results calculated properly and accurately for each instrument. While the expired solution appears to have had no impact on the readings calculated by the instruments, the department takes this very seriously."
The department has contacted the District Attorney's Office to conduct a review of any cases generated during the timeframe of the tests in order to determine the status of prosecution.
Moving forward, Stanford added that additional measures will be implemented to increase efficiency and reduce the possibility of an oversight of this nature.
"While no organization is proud of errors, we do appreciate the attorney bringing this to our attention. Optimum service to our citizens is not an option. Therefore, we have quickly rectified this matter and we remain committed to exceeding minimum standards set by policing guidelines. We will continue to review procedures and protocols to ensure that those expectations are achieved."
