Overview of 2025 Breath Testing for Prosecutors Monograph
Sponsored by IACT and Hosted by National Center on Forensics (NCF)
Breath alcohol testing remains one of the most critical tools in the investigation and prosecution of impaired driving cases. As defense strategies become increasingly sophisticated, it is essential that prosecutors, law enforcement officers, and forensic scientists understand both the science and the law underlying evidential breath testing. This webinar, hosted by the National Center on Forensics in partnership with the International Association for Chemical Testing (IACT), will provide a comprehensive overview of breath alcohol testing, including the history and scientific principles of breath analysis, the operational safeguards that ensure reliability, and the most common legal challenges raised in court. Attendees will learn how to effectively communicate the science of breath testing in the courtroom, recognize and respond to defense claims, and understand the role of quality assurance and accreditation in strengthening breath test evidence.
Learning Objectives:
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Explain the scientific foundations of breath alcohol testing
- Describe the physiology of breath samples, Henry’s Law, partition ratios, and the technology behind evidential breath testing instruments.
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Identify and address common challenges to breath test results
- Recognize frequent defense claims such as residual mouth alcohol, operator error, source code challenges, and physiological conditions, and develop strategies for effectively countering them.
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Understand the importance of quality systems in breath alcohol programs
- Discuss the role of calibration, maintenance, quality assurance, accreditation, and uncertainty of measurement in ensuring the accuracy and admissibility of breath test results.
Moderators:
- Curt Harper, Ph.D., Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences
- Jasmine Maxwell, MSFS, Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences
Faculty:
- Chris Heartsill, Regional Toxicology Liason
- Captain James Williams, Metro Nashville Police Department
- Ben Vetter, Montana Forensic Science Division
- Jen Cifaldi, Illinois Senior Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor
Agenda:
- Jasmine Maxwell & Curt Harper: Introduction (12-12:05)
- Chris Heartsill: Overview of Document (12:05 – 12:20)
- James Williams: Law Enforcement Perspective (12:20 – 12:40)
- Ben Vetter: Scientist Perspective (12:40 – 1:00)
- Jen Cifaldi: Prosecutor’s Perspective (1:00 – 1:20)
- Panel Discussion (1:20– 1:30)