What should an officer do if the subject’s BAC is significantly high on the Intoxilyzer 9000?

When an officer finds that a subject’s BAC is significantly high on the Intoxilyzer 9000, the appropriate action is to determine the need for further observation or arrest based on local laws. This approach is crucial because each jurisdiction has specific legal frameworks governing how officers should respond to different BAC levels. The officer must consult these laws to ensure that all actions taken are legally compliant and justified.

If the BAC reading indicates potential impairment, it is within the officer’s responsibility to evaluate the situation further and make a decision regarding observation or arrest. This may involve assessing the subject's behavior, ability to operate a vehicle safely, and overall condition. By adhering to local laws, the officer also ensures that their actions are supported by established legal guidelines, which is essential for the integrity of the process and for any subsequent legal proceedings that may arise from the encounter.

Other choices, such as administering additional tests regardless of laws or letting the subject go, could lead to legal complications and undermine public safety. Issuing only a warning without considering the BAC level may not adequately address the potential risks associated with high levels of intoxication. Therefore, following local legal standards is the best course of action in this scenario.