When police officers detain someone on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, they often administer a Breathalyzer test or field sobriety test to the suspect on site. These tests help Wisconsin officers determine whether or not the suspect is driving with a blood alcohol concentration that is over the legal limit. If the proper protocol is not followed, or if the officers do not find enough evidence to hold the driver on DUI charges, they are often forced to let them go. When the DUI crime involves the death of another driver, evidence becomes even more crucial in the case.
In California, a teen accused of driving while under the influence of drugs is being detained on charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, although there is virtually no evidence shown to link him with a DUI. Some are wondering if the unfortunate accident was purely a vehicle accident or involved the negligence of another driver. The man’s bail stands at $130,000 until his court date later this month.
According to the man’s attorney, the accused offender was given a Breathalyzer test after the accident occurred; however, the presence of alcohol was not detected. There has not been any blood test or toxicology information released indicating that the suspect was under the influence of any foreign substance while driving.
Being convicted of a DUI charge can have a substantial effect on one’s life. When the death of another person is involved, the accused offender faces prison time, steep fines and a host of other consequences. People who are accused of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs may want to partner with an established criminal defense attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer may be helpful in providing vital legal assistance to those who face these grievous charges.
Source: KEYT, “Lawyer Speaks Out in Defense of man Charges With DUI Crimes,” Christian Hartnett, June 23, 2014.