State v. Merritt

— In an implied consent case, we reject Brian Merritt’s claim that “qualified technicians” who draw blood pursuant to RCW 46.61.506(4) are subject to the permit requirements of RCW 46.61.506(3) for those analyzing blood samples, and, in addition, find sufficient evidence to support his conviction.

FACTS

Merritt drove a car that was involved in a one-car ac cident in which his sole passenger, Nicole Bianco, died at the scene. Merritt lost control of his car, hit a large rock, and flipped into a tree. Nicole died shortly after the accident of internal injuries consistent with being a passenger in…