Why is it crucial to take officer field notes during a DWI investigation?

Taking officer field notes during a DWI investigation is crucial because DWI evidence can often be fleeting. This means that the evidence related to the suspect's level of impairment, the circumstances of the stop, and any observable behavior may dissipate quickly after the initial encounter. For instance, a driver’s physical appearance, behavior, or even the smell of alcohol can change over time, making it essential to document observations as soon as possible.

Field notes serve as a reliable source of information that can be referred back to during later stages of the investigation or in court proceedings. The notes can aid in recalling specific details that could be vital for establishing the case, such as the suspect’s actions, their speech, their coordination, and any field sobriety test results. Therefore, meticulously taking notes during the investigation helps preserve critical evidence that may otherwise be lost if not documented immediately.