DWI Sentencing in the United States: Toward Promising Punishment Alternatives in Texas

Abstract

In recent decades, the dangers of driving while intoxicated (DWI) have received extensive attention. Despite the many efforts aimed at reducing DWI incidents, the rates have largely remained unchanged. The current study examines recidivism rates of three different sentencing options given to first-time DWI offenders in Tarrant County, Texas. Tarrant County courts allow first-time DWI offenders to choose between the three options of probation, straight jail sentence, or labor detail sanction. Recidivism rates for all three sentencing options are assessed, and probation is found to significantly reduce subsequent reoffending. Implications and limitations are discussed and suggestions for future research are provided.