Ignition Interlock

The Ignition Interlock Program (IIP) is utilized primarily for those convicted of a drinking-and-driving offense. While this program was utilized for certain repeat or aggravated DWI offenders in the past, it has become much more widely utilized and received much publicity throughout New York State as a result of Leandra’s Law legislation.

Leandra’s Law, affecting those convicted of a drinking-and-driving related offense on or after August 15, 2010, requires that anyone convicted of DWI, either at the misdemeanor or felony level, be required to install an Ignition Interlock system on any vehicle they own or operate. Ignition Interlock requires the operator of such a vehicle to give a breath sample before the vehicle engine will engage. In addition, random, “rolling” samples can be required and the system provides real-time GPS and a photograph of the individual providing the breath sample.

In Madison County, those offenders that are sentenced to a term of Probation Supervision are mandated by the Court to install an Ignition Interlock device. Their Ignition Interlock condition of probation is then supervised by the Probation Department.

Those offenders sentenced to a Conditional Discharge are also mandated to install Ignition Interlock devices. Their Ignition Interlock conditions are supervised by the Madison County District Attorney’s office.