Former California College Football Star Jason Shirley and His Hit-and-Run DUI Case
Former Fresno State football player and current Cincinnati Bengals rookie Jason Shirley showed up back in court last week after a judge threatened to issue a warrant for his arrest. Shirley faces DUI and hit and run charges from a DUI arrest in October 2007. Shirley is accused of driving drunk and crashing into a Fresno, California apartment. Shirley left the scene of the crime before officers arrived.
Shirley’s hectic professional football schedule was the reason for the judge to threaten a warrant, but on September 30, with Shirley in attendance in court in Fresno, California, Judge Brant K. Bramer set dates for Shirley’s retrial.
Shirley’s lawyer, Charles Magill, insists, “This case comes at a great cost professionally, they know it, and that’s why they’re trying to force him back into trial.” Magill added, “A rookie player who misses seasonal games is gonna have an impact on them,” speaking of Shirley’s new employers, the Cincinnati Bengals.
Magill has already publicly stated that he plans to ask the judge to drop the charges. Magill also has plans to call the Fresno State football team doctor to the witness stand to discuss whether or not Shirley’s concussion from a previous football game may have had any bearing on the accident.
Shirley’s hit-and-run DUI retrial begins October 29. A jury motion is scheduled for October 14. This is Shirley’s second trial for this incident; a mistrial was declared in June at Shirley’s first trial, after the jury was deadlocked.
Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County
In California, it is unlawful for any person under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug to drive.
If you have 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charged with driving under the influence or DUI if apprehended. You could face a fine and jail time if convicted.
Attorney Says DA Making An Example of Jason Shirley, CBS47TV, September 30, 2008.
Trial Date Set for Former Fresno State Football Player, Go Bengals.com, September 30, 2008.
Related Web Resources
California DMV on drunk driving
California DMV: what happens when you’re arrested for DUI
If you have been arrested and charged with DUI in San Diego county, then trust your case to an experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney. Attorney Victor A. Orsatti will explain your legal options during a free consultation.
