Colorado law enforcement officers are vigilant in looking for drivers who might be driving under the influence. Anyone can face DUI charges. It may lead to significant penalties personally and professionally. This was evident in the case of a former law enforcement officer who was charged with DUI.
The 32-year-old officer issued a guilty plea for an accident in 2019 after which he was take into custody for DUI. The case stemmed from the man going through a red light and crashing into another car. That started a chain reaction crash involving a third vehicle. He reportedly fled and went home with the vehicle. When officers spoke to him, allegedly he slurred his words, had problems balancing, and had bloodshot eyes. His breath reportedly smelled of alcohol, and he refused to be tested in any way.
While he was being booked, he asked if he could contact the commander at his own department. After the guilty plea, he was fired as a law enforcement officer. As part of his agreement, he was put on probation for 18 months. He was sentenced to pay fines, court costs and perform community service. In addition to DUI, he was charged with careless driving and for not reporting an accident.
As this case shows, a DUI charge and conviction or guilty plea can have a far-reaching impact on a person’s life. Not only can there be a variety of legal penalties including jail, fines and a driver’s license suspension, but the person could be at risk of losing his or her job. The conviction will be on the person’s record and it could cause problems with seeking other forms of employment, getting into a school and with other goals in life. Regardless of the catalyst for the arrest, there may be viable avenues of defense to achieve a positive outcome. Perhaps the investigation was flawed or other issues were a factor in the incident. Having legal advice may be essential for an effective DUI defense. Calling for a consultation is key.
