In partnership with the Watertown Urban Mission, WPBS-DT recorded a DWI victim’s impact panel in April, 2013. Through touching stories, families discuss the loss of loved ones to drunk driving and the impact the loss has had on their lives. Law enforcement officials also examined the real consequences of a DWI arrest.
This panel helps to put a human face on the tragedies that are a very real consequence of driving while intoxicated," said Erika Flint, Executive Director. " Through this panel, these families have taken their tragedy and turned it into a positive, using their testimony to prevent future tragedies. It has also helped them heal through the bonds they have made with each other."
The Panel featured an expanded lineup of speakers, including seven families who lost loved ones to DWI related vehicle accidents, a statement from a woman currently serving time for killing someone in a DWI related crash, Jefferson County Judge Kim Martusewicz, District Attorney Cindy Intschert, and Bridge Program Director Sal Ciulo.
"DWI is something that is easily avoided and has a real cost," Sal said. "This panel is intended to show people who might think driving drunk is no big deal that no matter if you're buzzed or falling over drunk, you put yourself at risk and others. These families are suffering because someone they loved was killed by an irresponsible choice, and we want to help everyone make the responsible choice to never get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle if they've been drinking alcohol."
A DVD of the program will be made available also to show in schools, to organizations, and reach as many people as possible to help reinforce its message about the risks of driving while intoxicated.
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