Mi-Jung Lee had another report on the IRP scheme, this time dealing with ASD accuracy problems and ASD malfunctions. She picked one of many inaccurate calibration tests to give as an example.
The spokesman for the VPD said one with such a reading would have gone for repair, but she did not say that this unit went for repair. In fact, there was nothing in the disclosure to suggest that it was sent for repair.
There are a number of interesting points to note:
- We had to fight for these documents;
- No lay person has been able to obtain these documents to defend an IRP;
- It took months to get them; and most importantly
- The VPD did nothing to notify people who received IRPs due to this device.
We were told that we could trust the police, and once again they betrayed our trust.
The final thing that should be noted is that for a significant number of calibration checks (dozens) the records showed that the devices were reporting greatly elevated readings. ASD accuracy problems are simply commonplace.
A published study showed that most ASDs would keep their calibration just as well after 30 days as they would after 15 days. The problem is, a number would be out of calibration shortly after being tested.
This is why, all along, we have maintained that it is inappropriate to harshly punish people on the basis of an ASD.