21 October 2008
Statement from Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi Regarding DUI “Wall of Shame” Court Decision
The objective of the Wall of Shame has always been to change the culture that exists. Driving drunk has become a socially acceptable crime, and it cannot remain socially acceptable.
We decided to use the internet and the media as it is the most effective means of disseminating information in the 21st century and we disagree with the court’s decision. I believe there must be a further exploration of the laws that pertain to the impact of the internet as a means of disseminating public information. Therefore, we will be appealing the case.
In the meantime, the County will remove all names and photos currently on the Wall of Shame and will no longer publish the names and photos of DUI arrests on the County’s website. As these arrests are public information, the County will continue to release to the media on a weekly basis the names and photos of those arrested.
Nassau County will now publish only the names and photos of those convicted of drunken driving charges on the County’s website.
The Wall of Shame has been a very effective deterrent in our continuing war against drunk driving. Alcohol-related fatalities have decreased by 47% this year and because of increased enforcement, DUI arrests during the Wall of Shame period (5/25/-10/20) have increased by 6% in 2008 from the same period in 2007. People are talking about driving drunk and taxi cab ridership has increased in Nassau County.
Drunk driving can no longer be considered a socially acceptable crime; it is a destructive, reckless, and potential deadly mistake. The Nassau County District Attorney’s office and Nassau County Police Department, together with my office, will continue fight drunk driving.
