A mechanical hiccup at the Blue Earth County Justice Center has thrown a shadow of doubt over numerous breathalyzer tests. The Blue Earth County Sheriff's Office announced on social media that an employee error involving the DataMaster DMT, an instrument used to gauge alcohol levels for driving under the influence (DUI) investigations, was identified and an ongoing review is targeting 161 tests carried out between October 17, 2024, and May 5, 2025.
The details emerged after the Sheriff's Office was alerted by the MN Bureau of Criminal Apprehension on October 16, 2025, about the data entry error. The DataMaster DMT is a commonly utilized device in multiple law enforcement agencies including the Mankato Department of Public Safety, Minnesota State Patrol, Lake Crystal Police Department, and the Mapleton Police Department now poised to review their DUI cases.
While the specific nature of the error involved "incorrect numeric entries made by a Sheriff’s Office employee," it has since been rectified, authorities assure. In the statement released by the sheriff's office, there is an anticipation of additional guidance, indicating potential impact on the accuracy of the affected tests.
The county has prompted individuals who believe they were subject of a questionable test during the said period to seek counsel. "Individuals with questions that believe they were the subject of a test during this timeframe are encouraged to contact the attorney that represented them for guidance," reiterates the sheriff's office public notice. Meanwhile, the legal ramifications of the error for those potentially wrongfully convicted remain hazy.
