Embassy Law | Dec 14, 2006

Embassy Law Web Log   
Washington, DC, USA      




Drunk, Stolen and no ID

What is police to do if they suspect a diplomatic vehicle to have been stolen and the driver to be under the influence when the persons within the vehicle refuse to identify themselves and to take an alcohol test? A standoff with detention could result, as Digital Chosunilbo reports on December 14, 2006 in Chinese Diplomats in Nightlong Standoff With Traffic Cops. The article examines the issues arising under Art. 29 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the pragmatic solutions offered by the affected authorities. -- Clemens Kochinke, Berliner, Corcoran & Rowe, LLP, Washington.