We are planning a victim survivor tribute in part, to remember the People vs. Watson case of 1981 30Cal3d 290. This case led to the most significant DUI decision in California history as someone who is driving under the influence of alcohol who kills another individual can be charged with second degree murder. Without this decision, the most serious offense for which someone could be convicted when killing another by driving under the influence WAS vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence. That offense carries a maximum of ten years in state prison. Second degree murder carries a sentence of fifteen years to life.

I would like to relay to all of you the significance of this Supreme Court decision for the victims and survivors of Shasta County and for MADD. The 30th anniversary of this crash is January 3rd. Please check back often for more details and, as always, we welcome donations to continue our fight against drunk drivers and to make this tribute a reality.

As requested at our last meeting I have set up a bulletin board for our volunteers. This is a private discussion board and is for our volunteers only. The bulletin board is under the Volunteer menu and can also be accessed here. To gain access, use the "Apply for membership" link. All applications will be reviewed by myself or Evie and you will then be granted access. If you have any questions, please ask Chris at chris@csredding.com.

More than 197,000 DUI arrests were made in California last year, a troubling number when you consider that there are only 100,000 vehicles with alcohol ignition interlocks nationwide.
Ignition interlock is a breath test device linked to a vehicle’s ignition system.Ignition interlocks are up to 90 percent effective in keeping both first-time and repeat offenders from recommitting the crime.

Ignition interlocks ensure DUI offenders won't be able to drink and drive while permitting sober offenders to drive to work and thus provide for their families.Two important DUI ignition interlock bills are coming up for consideration in California this spring. You can make a difference in getting these lifesaving bills passed. Click on the links below to send messages to your legislators, urging them to support AB 2784 and SB 1388.

Support AB 2784 -- Requiring all persons convicted of DUI to use an ignition interlock for at least five months as a condition of driving

Support SB 1388 -- Allowing the Department of Motor Vehicles to administer the mandatory ignition interlock program for all convicted DUI offenders.

Also be sure to check out our new page with updated information on the IID device.