What must law enforcement officers do to establish the accuracy of an SMD in court?

What must law enforcement officers do to establish the accuracy of an SMD in court?

• A. Demonstrate that the device is in good condition
• B. Present evidence of proper calibration and operation
• C. Provide witness statements from drivers
• D. Show that other officers used the device

Answer: (B)

To establish the accuracy of a speed measurement device (SMD) in court, it is essential for law enforcement officers to present evidence of proper calibration and operation. This is because the reliability of the SMD's data hinges on the device being accurately calibrated according to manufacturer specifications and operational standards. Calibration ensures that any measurements taken by the device are correct and can be trusted in legal proceedings.

Proper documentation of calibration, including details about the frequency of these checks and the qualifications of personnel who performed them, reinforces the credibility of the evidence collected from the SMD. This systematic approach helps courts ascertain that the speed readings are not only based on the technology employed but also on a rigorous adherence to procedures that ensure the device functions correctly at the time of its use.