SFST Court Testimony 2

Question 1

When cross-examined about HGN testing, which foundational point should an SFST officer be prepared to establish first?

Accepted Answer

Scientific validity of HGN as an impairment indicator

Answer

Before HGN evidence is admitted, the officer must establish that the test is based on sound scientific principles linking nystagmus to alcohol impairment.

Question 2

An officer is asked on the stand: 'Did you record the exact angle of onset of nystagmus?' The best response if no angle was measured is:

Accepted Answer

Admit no angle measurement was taken and explain it is not required by NHTSA protocol

Answer

NHTSA SFST protocol does not require officers to measure precise angles; honest acknowledgment of this avoids impeachment.

Question 3

During direct examination, the prosecutor asks the officer to describe the Walk-and-Turn test. The officer should emphasize:

Accepted Answer

The specific observed clues and how each correlates to impairment

Answer

Testimony should focus on observable, documented clues and their validated correlation to BAC of 0.08 or higher.

Question 4

Defense counsel asks: 'Isn't it true that innocent medical conditions can cause HGN?' The officer's most accurate response is:

Accepted Answer

Yes, certain medical conditions can cause nystagmus, which is why officers are trained to screen for them

Answer

Officers are trained to identify medical or other non-alcohol causes of nystagmus, and acknowledging this demonstrates thorough training.

Question 5

What is the evidentiary purpose of an officer referencing NHTSA training materials during court testimony?

Accepted Answer

To establish that the tests were administered according to validated, standardized procedures

Answer

Referencing NHTSA standards confirms the officer followed validated protocols, supporting admissibility and weight of SFST evidence.

(SFST) Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Certified Practice Test

(SFST) Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Certified Practice Test

SFST Court Testimony 2