The Office of the State’s Attorney for Worcester County has once again earned the highest conviction rate in the State of Maryland for the prosecution of alcohol and drug-related driving offenses, as 2023 data released by the University of Maryland’s National Study Center for Trauma and EMS reveals. Worcester County prosecutors handled nearly 1,000 DUI/DWI cases during the 2023 calendar year, and secured an impressive 91% conviction rate. The statewide average conviction rate for 2023 was 79% by comparison. The Maryland State’s Attorney’s Association has recognized Worcester County prosecutors for having the State’s top DUI conviction rate every year since 2019.
“I am extremely proud of our aggressive efforts in the prosecution of DUI cases,” commented State’s Attorney Kris Heiser. “Having the highest conviction rate in the State for the last 6 years demonstrates to our community that we will continue to deliver the results they deserve and hold drunk drivers accountable for endangering our citizens. Because drunk driving is 100% preventable, especially in resort towns like Ocean City where there are so many alternative modes of transportation available, the prosecution of these offenses will remain a priority for our team of prosecutors.”
Heiser continued, “I also want to thank all of our police officers for being proactive in stopping dangerous drivers on our roadways, and for their expertise and professionalism in bringing us quality cases to prosecute in court. Our team shares a mutual respect and admiration for our police partners, and I know our community appreciates our joint efforts to keep them safe.” Heiser also recognized the dedication of Assistant State’s Attorneys Farlow, Haskell, Rinaldi, Smith and Baldwin, who are responsible for prosecuting the vast majority of these offenses as part of the Office’s District Court Division.