Who has the authority to order an alcohol interlock device installed on a defendant's vehicle?

The court system has the authority to order the installation of an alcohol interlock device on a defendant's vehicle. This measure is typically part of a sentence or a condition set by the court following a DUI or alcohol-related offense. The court assesses the circumstances of the case and determines the need for the interlock device to help ensure public safety by preventing further instances of driving under the influence.

The role of the police department is mainly focused on enforcing the law and investigating offenses, while a defendant's lawyer may argue on behalf of their client but does not hold any direct authority to impose such sanctions. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), while responsible for regulating driver licenses, works within the parameters that the court establishes regarding driver's privileges and restrictions post-conviction. Therefore, it is the court system that holds the ultimate authority to mandate the installation of an alcohol interlock device.