Former San Diego State Player Matthew McCoy Loses His Job After Felony DUI
Matthew McCoy, a former reserve linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and San Diego State, was arrested October 18 and charged with felony DUI. Police say McCoy was stopped less than 300 feet from his home in Tampa, Florida.
McCoy reportedly refused a breathalyzer test and was subsequently arrested. In California, drivers who refuse the chemical test can be sentenced to jail terms if they've previously been convicted of DUI.
The San Diego Chargers will travel to Tampa Bay in December to play a game against a Buccaneers team that no longer includes McCoy. The Bucs released McCoy from their roster around 4 p.m., less than 12 hours after his arrest.
McCoy, 26, was pulled over about 4 a.m. after police saw him driving the wrong way down a busy boulevard. McCoy smelled strongly of alcohol, had bloodshot and glassy eyes, and swayed while standing still, according to the police report. He refused a blood alcohol test on advice from his lawyer and was arrested. He was released on $500 bail Saturday afternoon only to learn he had been cut from the team.
McCoy, a star at San Diego State, was in his fourth NFL season. He was a second-round pick for the Eagles in 2005 and started ten games in 2006. The Bucs signed McCoy to a free-agent contract in March of this year and he had appeared in three games at middle linebacker.
His next court date is not known.
Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County
Reality is harsh for many pro athletes. No matter if you are pro or not, driving while under the influence is against the law. 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.
Bucs Cut McCoy After DUI Charge, Tampa Bay.com, October 18, 2008.
Matt McCoy, USAToday.com, October 29, 2008.
Related Web Resources
California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence
California DMV on 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.
