How should the results from a breath test be treated in a criminal proceeding?

In criminal proceedings, the results from a breath test should be presented as evidence with thorough documentation of the protocols followed during the testing process. This is vital because the reliability and accuracy of the breath test are largely dependent on strict adherence to established procedures and protocols. When law enforcement officers and testing operators meticulously document the calibration of the equipment, the conditions under which the test was administered, and any maintenance performed, it strengthens the validity of the test results.

Furthermore, proper documentation and adherence to protocols help to establish the chain of custody and ensure that the evidence is not compromised. This attention to detail serves to substantiate the testimony of the operator and provide a clear understanding of the testing conditions, which can be scrutinized in court. Such practices enhance the credibility of the results and support their acceptance as reliable evidence in legal proceedings.

The other options lack a basis in standard legal practice regarding breath test results and do not uphold the principles necessary for the fair administration of justice.