Former Fresno State Football Player Jason Shirley Found Guilty of DUI In Second Trial
In a trial that belonged in television, Jason Shirley was found guilty of DUI in his second go-round with the state of California.
In October 2007, Shirley was arrested after driving his car into an apartment building in Fresno, California, and then leaving the scene. He was chased down and then failed a breathalyzer test. Just a few short months later, the Cincinnati Bengals drafted Shirley, although he has yet to play in a single game.
In Shirley’s first trial, Fresno State coach Pat Hill testified that Shirley suffered a concussion during a recent game against Nevada. The defense argued the concussion was to blame for Shirley’s bad decisions that day. And they argued that the breathalyzer failed when it reported Shirley was driving under the influence. The case ended in a mistrial.
In the second trial, Shirley took the stand and admitted he drank a 40 oz bottle of beer before driving into the apartment building. He also testified that he thought he ran over a curb and not into the building. After three hours of deliberation, the jury found Shirley guilty on charges of DUI and hit-and-run. He was sentenced to 30 days in a work program.
The Bengals released a statement about Shirley:
"The club is aware that the vehicular charges against Jason Shirley, stemming from his college career, have been resolved against him," the Bengals said in the statement. "He will likely complete the legal obligations required by the court during the offseason, and the club expects that he will do what he needs to do to put this incident behind him and contribute to the football team."
Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County
Shirley’s breathalyzer signified he was well over the California blood alcohol limit of 0.08. Breathalyzer tests are reliable indicators used by police to discover if a driver is driving under the influence. 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.
Bengals Jason Shirley Found Guilty of DUI Despite His Interesting Defense NFL FanHouse.com, November 12, 2008
Jason Shirley Guilty on DUI Counts KSEE24.com, November 10, 2008
Related Web Resources
California DMV on drunk driving and field sobriety tests
California DMV: if you are pulled over for DUI, what happens?
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.
