In what can be only described as a unique way to discourage drunk driving, the prosecutor of Texas County, TX plans on naming drunk drivers arrested on Twitter. The prosecutor states he hopes this may stop from drunk driving if they know their neighbors will know about their arrest. The arrest needs to happen between Christmas and New Years to make it to Twitter.

In a recent article it also states that:

The information is already a matter of public record and it is not uncommon for local newspapers in the U.S. to publish the names of those charged with drunk driving or soliciting a prostitute as a kind of public shaming. But these practices are controversial, and some legal pundits wonder if publishing names on Twitter is going too far.

A “person who’s been arrested is still innocent unless proven guilty,” said Houston defense attorney Paul Kennedy in a blog posting. “My question is should the DA dismiss a case against a motorist or should a motorist be acquitted by a jury of his peers, will Mr. Diepraam offer a public apology on Twitter as well?”

Just “because facts are publicly known and made available by the media, doesn’t mean the prosecutor has to actively publicize these facts,” wrote Venkat Balasubramani, a lawyer and Internet law blogger.

I personally believe that anything that helps to stop people from drinking and riving should be used. It is unfortunate that even with the higher fines and penalties some continue to violate the law and place others in danger by drinking and driving.

To embarrass someone may be a better alternative than putting the person in jail. Yet, for some, it may not make any difference. Their are those who could care less whether they get arrested or not. Those with multiple convictions fall into this category.

What do you think? Will this help or is it just a waste of time?

Comments welcome.

Source.