In a litigious environment, what could an improper SFST compromise?

An improper Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) can significantly compromise the integrity of the case and prosecution. This is because the SFST is a crucial component used by law enforcement to establish a suspect's level of impairment due to alcohol or drugs. If the test is not administered correctly—whether due to improper training, environmental factors, or human error—the evidence collected through the test may be deemed unreliable.

When the integrity of the evidence is questioned, it undermines the entire prosecution's case, affecting the ability to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Additionally, any weaknesses or doubts raised about the SFST results can lead to challenges in court, which could ultimately result in the dismissal of charges or a not-guilty verdict. The strength of a prosecution often relies heavily on the reliability and propriety of the evidence presented, including field sobriety tests. Therefore, maintaining the integrity of the SFST process is vital for the successful prosecution of impaired driving cases.