San Diego DUI Lawyer Blog

A San Diego woman was sentenced Friday for felony charges of a DUI hit and run that resulted in injury.
Twenty-two year old Jessica Bloom pleaded guilty for driving under the influence of alcohol and crashing into a decorated marine that left him in almost a fatal critical condition. Bloom will spend four years and four months behind bars due to this incident. The victim, Sgt. David W. Smith is suffering from major injuries such as a lacerated kidney, lacerated liver, partial decapitation and bleeding of the brain. His life threatening injuries left him in “comatose for two days, paralyzed completely for two of three days and on life support for ten days.”

The crash took place around 12:30 p.m. last July when Bloom rammed into Smith’s motorcycle from behind while at a stoplight when she was behind the wheel of her Chevrolet Trailblazer. According to the prosecuting attorney, the San Diego drunk driver was reported to have a blood alcohol level of .37 percent, which is more than four times the legal limit. Matthew Williams, the prosecuting attorney said that Smith was launched onto the hood of the Trailblazer then onto the street. This prompted Bloom to get out of her SUV where she was in a state of panic asking if the victim was dead. Then she got back into her vehicle and drove off to her apartment building. Bloom’s hit and run prompted witnesses to follow her and call the police.

Judge Theodore Weathers said it was "beyond belief" and "beyond comprehension" that the defendant drank so much that day. It was also stated Bloom has been arrested before back in November of 2008 where she was arrested for a DUI.

Woman Guilty Of DUI That Injured Marine Sentenced, San Diego 10 News, January 6, 2012

Web Related Resource:

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

Continue reading "San Diego Drunk Driver Sentenced for Crash that Almost Killed Marine" »

In Burbank California, Disney star Mitchel Musso, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
According to Sergeant Sean Kelley of the Burbank Police Department, Musso who was known for playing Oliver Oken on Disney’s “Hannah Montana,” was pulled over by officers in his 2007 black Mercedes when he didn’t follow officer’s directions to slow down his vehicle in an intersection where an accident had just taken place. When pulled over, officers could smell the stench of alcohol on the celebrity drunken driver’s breath where he was then instructed to take a field sobriety test which he ended up failing.

The actor, who is only twenty years of age, had a blood alcohol level above the 0.08 legal limit when he had taken his breathalyzer test. For those under twenty one years, anything above 0.01 is against the law. After the drunken driver took his tests, he was then arrested for driving under the influence and taken into custody. Musso’s bail was set and $5,000 and was released a few hours later from custody.

Not only was Musso a character in Hannah Montana, the actor is currently the voice of Jeremy Johnson on the Disney program “Phineas and Ferb.” In addition to Phineas and Ferb, Musso has been on the television series a “Pair of Kings” which is a story about teenage twins who are 16 years old and find out they are heirs to a fictional island known as Kinkow.

Mitchel Musso, "Hannah Montana" star, arrested for DUI, CBS News, October 18, 2011

Hannah Montana Star Arrested for DUI, People Magazine, October 17, 2011

Web-Related Resources

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI
California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "Disney Star Mitchel Musso Arrested For DUI" »

A DUI arrest was made in San Diego on Sunday morning when a San Diego State University basketball player was caught driving under the influence of alcohol.

Twenty- year old Jamal Franklin, a sophomore, was pulled over by police on Campanile Drive and Hardy Avenue around 4:22 in the morning. Information regarding the arrest was made by university police where it was stated that Franklin was “transported to jail” as well as his car being towed. SDSU police refused to publicize Franklin’s blood alcohol level which the California law is that drivers of legal age and over cannot have a blood-alcohol level of .08. For those under twenty-one years, the law is .01.

Coach Fisher of the basketball team is aware of the player’s DUI arrest and is still collecting information regarding the case. Mike May, the San Diego State’s athletic department representative failed to comment on the incident. Franklin’s teammates have recognized how much their teammate has improved with his game as well as envisioned him to do well this season. It was also reported that at a nationally publicized game in July, Franklin knocked out his front tooth while dunking the basketball.

The SDSU basketball team’s first practice of the season is October 14th and the first opening game is scheduled for November 11th. “Franklin is one of the nine scholarship players eligible this season” and one of four players to receive regular minutes.

SDSU Basketball Player Arrested for DUI, Sign on San Diego, September 18, 2011

Web-Related Resources:

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest
California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "SDSU Basketball Player Arrested For DUI" »

In Vista on Tuesday, the testimony trial of a man accused of driving under the influence when he slammed into a sport utility vehicle ultimately killing the driver in Oceanside had finally come to an end.

The drunken driver known as William Vincent Romero could be convicted and have to serve fifteen years to life in prison as well as other charges for killing Oscar Lopez in the DUI crash that occurred in April of 2010. Judge Michael Kirkman of Vista Superior Court scheduled this case’s closing arguments for this coming Wednesday. Forty-four year old Romero is facing murder charges, a DUI resulting in gross vehicular manslaughter, driving with an illegal amount of blood-alcohol in his system, injury stemmed from a DUI as well as a hit and run.

Information provided by the California Highway Patrol, Romero was driving his 1993 Chevrolet Camaro south of the I-5 near Basilone Road around midnight. Then Romero started going into another lane when he crashed into Lopez’s Ford Explorer. Lopez who was in the car sleeping before his early morning work shift at a fish company was ejected from the SUV and killed immediately. Lopez’s five year-old son, Oscar Jr. was thrown from the vehicle as well however escaped any injuries. Romero tried to escape the scene but was arrested not too long after. The San Diego drunken driver blood alcohol level measured at 0.10 percent, which is above the 0.08 legal limit.

According to Matthew Greco, a Deputy District attorney, Romero was convicted of child abuse in 2004 where ultimately went to prison. In addition, Romero has been previously convicted of felonies for bribery and giving false evidence.

Closing Arguments Planned In Fatal Crash Trial , San Diego 10 News, September 6, 2011

Web-Related Resources:

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "San Diego Man Faces Vehicular Manslaughter Charges" »

In Santa Ana California, the Long Beach fire captain pleaded guilty for critically injuring a cyclist in a crash while he was driving under the influence of alcohol back in April.

On the first day of April, John Hines, a resident of Huntington Beach, was drinking at a bar in Long Beach before getting behind the wheel of his truck. Hines lost control of his driving in Seal Beach and ultimately hit a cyclist who was in the bike lane. The victim, forty-seven year old Jeffrey Gordon was severely injured. Hines didn’t pull over to stop after hitting Gordon and just kept driving until he reached his home where he was later arrested. The drunken fire captain’s blood alcohol level was three times the legal limit where he measured at 0.24 percent. Hines pleaded guilty to the charges of a DUI resulting in bodily injury, driving with a blood alcohol level above the legal limit, a hit and run with an injury as well as sentencing for causing an injury while having blood alcohol content above 0.20 percent.

Thirty-eight year old Hines will be serving a ninety day state prison sentence to determine whether or not he is fitting for prison. The second of December is his sentencing date where he could face up to seven years in prison. Andrew Katz, Deputy District attorney said that "It's not your standard DUI...this is a guy who was three times the legal limit at 1 in the afternoon. He knows better. This is a guy who's been sliding for a long time. And for a first responder who treats people at the scene to flee the scene is unconscionable. He should not be dealt with the same. He should be held to a higher standard."

Gordon, the victim, is hospitalized and being treated for a broken back as well as head and spinal injuries.

Long Beach Fire Captain Convicted in DUI Case, Sign on San Diego, September 6, 2011

Web-Related Resources:

California DUI: DUI procedures

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "Long Beach Fire Captain Pleads Guilty for DUI Hit and Run Crash" »

San Diego resident Long Xu was sentenced to four years and four months in prison for killing fellow car passenger and victim Jiani Cheng while he was driving under the influence of alcohol.

Twenty-one year old Xu pleaded guilty in court for driving while intoxicated and for causing great bodily harm to Cheng. Xu’s defense attorney, Victor Orsatti, asked the court that his client receive probation. Orsatti argued that his client was “not a drinker and had five or six small glasses of beer at a karaoke bar before the crash. "This is a tragic situation," Orsatti said. "He (Xu) has led a tremendous life." It was stated in court that Xu had a blood alcohol content of .10% after the tragedy however it turned out to be .08 when he was retested. At the time of the accident, a witness said the Xu’s car had flipped on the northbound 11th Avenue onramp on Interstate 5 while going 60 mph.

According to Xu’s mother, she explained that she and her husband divorced two years ago and the divorce has affected her son. The other passenger in Xu’s vehicle was Guozhen Yu. Yu explained that Xu did well in school and that Xu helped him with his English.

The victim’s aunt and uncle appeared in court on behalf of their niece to watch justice be served since the victim’s parents live in China. Derek Grilz, Deputy District Attorney explained that this tragedy was “avoidable” if Xu had not made the choice to get behind the wheel after drinking.

Man Who Caused fatal DUI Crash that Killed Female Passenger Sentenced to Prison Term, San Diego CBS 8 News, August 12, 2011

Web Related Resources

California DUI: DUI procedures

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego Resident Gets Four Years for DUI Vehicular Manslaughter" »

A DUI arrest in San Diego has been made for eighteen year old Joseph Edward Walsh who has been charged with two DUI felonies resulting from a drunken crash that occurred a few months ago.

Walsh who is listed to appear in court on Thursday for his arraignment is facing charges from causing injury and another felony count of driving with a considerable amount of alcohol in his system which also caused injury according to San Diego Police. On May 18, 2011, the crash occurred on Rueda Road where Walsh was driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.15 percent when he smashed into an SUV carrying a couple and their four year old. After the collision, the vehicle Walsh was driving rolled four times ultimately injuring two passengers.

Not long after the accident, a few of Walsh’s peers from Serra High School claimed that they were in disbelief that Walsh was involved in the crash. A fellow classmate of Walsh, Katelyn Garber said that “He's [Walsh] is a pretty sharp guy, good grades, everything ... what happened was not him at all; nothing he would do. It was a shock … to all of us.”

At the downtown San Diego County Courthouse, a complaint was filed that said Sarah Martin, Laureen Mazza, Sameer Asadi and Mogadassa Amozgar were also injured in the incident yet the complaint doesn't explain which vehicles they were in and how those people were injured. The San Diego district attorney's office as well as the police department would not go into further detail.

Man Faces DUI Charges In Tierrasanta Crash, San Diego 10 News, August 8, 2011

Web Related Resources:

California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Teen Faces Two Felony Charges Stemming from DUI Crash" »

DUI arrest in Phoenix Arizona for Nikolai Khabibulin for driving under the influence of alcohol is being ordered to serve a fifteen day jail sentence at the Maricopa County Jail.

In August of last year, the hockey player was found guilty for his DUI back in February 2010 and the charges that stemmed from it. The Edmonton Oilers goaltender was pulled over by police for speeding in his black Ferrari. When police offered him a field sobriety test and a blood test, Khabibulin agreed to participate. His results showed that his blood-alcohol content was more than twice the legal limit.

Due to Khabibulin’s extreme speeding and high blood alcohol content, it is a minimum that the hockey player will have to serve a 30 day jail sentence. When Khabibulin arrived at his court appearance, he accepted the thirty days jail as well as agreed to pay the fine of $4,016, and last but not least, to partake in a treatment program. Khabibulin will spend half his time in jail and the other half of his sentence under house arrest wearing a monitoring bracelet. Currently, the hockey player has already finished his alcohol treatment program.

"I eagerly anticipate a timely return to Edmonton for training camp, where I will strive to be the best player, teammate and citizen possible," according to the 38 year-old drunken driver. Steve Tambellini, the Edmonton Oilers manager acknowledges the goaltender’s punishment and fully expects Khabibulin to complete his requirements before the Oilers training camp begins.

Khabibulin Going to Jail for Drunk Driving, The Vancouver Sun, July 27, 2011

Web Related Resources

California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "DUI Jailtime for Oilers Goaltender" »

A United Airlines co-pilot was found guilty of monitoring his flight while under the influence of alcohol.

Aaron Jason Cope, the co-pilot, is looking at 15 years in prison as well as a hefty $250,000 fine for being intoxicated during the flight from Austin, Texas to Denver in December 2009 in which he was operating the aircraft. Cope’s bench trial occurred on June 6th and 7th where he was convicted by John Tunheim, a District Court Judge.

Robert Obodzinski the Captain of the flight testified that he could smell the alcohol on his co-pilot’s breath. Although Cope was the co-pilot, his duty on that December 8th flight was to monitor the plane and not to operate the controls. However, on the next flight he was scheduled to fly an aircraft that holds up to eighty people. Obodzinski confronted Cope by saying “If you have any problem taking a Breathalyzer, call off sick and get out of here.” Cope replied "Well, I guess I better call off sick then." Cope was instructed to undergo an inspection at the main terminal in Denver’s International Airport. There they found that Cope’s blood alcohol content was a 0.094%. The legal limit for any aircraft crew member is a 0.04.

The drunken airline co-pilot confessed that he had in fact been drinking at a bar with a friend. He also admitted to buying beer at a nearby gas station by his hotel where he, his friend and two flight attendants had stayed the night before.

Co-Pilot Convicted Of Being Drunk On Flight In 2009, San Diego 10 News, June 21, 2011

Web Related Sources:

California DUI: DUI procedures

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "Airline Co-Pilot Found Guilty of Drinking and Flying" »

One of MTV’s star stuntman died in a drunken car crash on the morning of June 20, 2011 in Pennsylvania.

Ryan Dunn of MTV’s Jackass and Zachary Hartwell were going 140 mph in Dunn’s Porsche on Route 322 when the car crashed and caught fire. A tow truck hauled the demolished car away. It wasn’t reported until later that Dunn and his friend had been drinking before getting behind the wheel. According to the autopsy report, both Dunn and Hartwell suffered from “blunt and thermal trauma” in the accident.

Dunn who was indeed driving, showed in his toxicology report results that his blood alcohol level was 0.196%-when the Pennsylvania state limit is 0.08. His alcohol content was more than twice the legal limit!
Before the crash even occurred, a photo of the two men drinking was tweeted by Dunn at a bar in West Chester Pennsylvania.

The stuntman had many friends who shared their sadness and condolences through twitter. Johnny Knoxville, a fellow Jackass member tweeted "Today I lost my brother Ryan Dunn. My heart goes out to his family and his beloved Angie. RIP Ryan. I love you buddy." Benji Madden of Good Charlotte tweeted "I'm very Sad and Shocked to hear about Ryan Dunn,". "My thoughts & prayers are with his Family." Another friend of Dunn’s, Brody Jenner tweeted his condolences as well; "Just heard about Ryan Dunn… So sad.. #RIPRYANDUNN."

Jackass Star Ryan Dunn Killed in Car Crash, People Magazine Online, June 20, 2011

Ryan Dunn Was Driving Drunk When He Died, People Magazine Online, June 22, 2011

Web Related Sources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "Ryan Dunn Dies in DUI Car Crash" »

A DUI arrest was made in Miami Beach early in the morning on Thursday for a famous rapper driving while intoxicated as well as driving with a suspended license.

Well known rapper, Flo Rida, was arrested when his blood alcohol level measured above the legal limit at a .185. The thirty-one year old rapper was driving out of control in his Bugatti when police pulled him over in South Beach. The police officer who stopped the drunken celebrity noticed the smell of alcohol on the rapper’s breath as well as the garbled speech and bloodshot eyes; all signs linking that the driver had been drinking.

When the officer asked the rapper to perform a field sobriety test, Flo Rida responded “I can’t do this. I don't think I can walk a straight line. I had a few drinks. Let's do another test. I live on the other side of the bridge. I can make it home." When the drunken singer refused to complete the test, the officer arrested him and brought him back to the Miami Beach Police Department where he would be processed and booked.

It was discovered that the reason why Flo Rida was driving on a suspended license was due in part of not paying a traffic fine when he was supposed to pay the fine by April 13. Flo Rida’s attorneys made a joint statement about the investigation where they both declined to comment.

Flo Rida Arrested for DUI in Florida, People.com, June 9, 2011

Web Related Resources

California DUI: DUI procedures

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "DUI Arrest For Rapper Flo Rida " »

Estella Warren was charged on Thursday for a Driving under the influence of alcohol, a hit and run and assaulting as well as resisting a police officer.

On May 23rd, the Planet of the Apes actress and model crashed her Toyota Prius into three cars in Los Angeles and kept on driving until police had spotted her to pull her over. When pulled over, it was reported that Warren was “resisting arrest” by kicking one of the officers. The drunken model finally was put into cuffs after she had refused a chemical breath test and clearly failed a field sobriety test.

While the actress was being booked at the station, she managed to slip her wrists from the handcuffs and tried to flee; however, she was caught and booked on a additional charge of felony escape. This makes a total of four misdemeanors in one night. The Sports Illustrated swimsuit model has her arraignment scheduled for June 17. Since been charged with four misdemeanors, Warren is looking at six months maximum behind bars.

This is not the first encounter the actress has had with the law. In 2007, she was convicted for driving under the influence. During her arrest last May, an L.A. County Sheriff representative explained that Warren was “uncooperative and demanding.”

Estella Warren Arrested for DUI, Hit and Run, Assault and Escape , E Online, May 24, 2011

Estella Warren CHARGED -- DUI, Hit-and-Run, Battery, TMZ Online, June 9, 2011

Estella Warren Charged with DUI, Battery on Officer,, People Magazine Online, June 9, 2011

Web Related Sources

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "DUI Charge for Estella Warren Along with Three Other Misdemeanors" »

In Missoula Montana, University of Montana quarterback Nate Montana, 21, was arrested for driving while intoxicated.

According to the county sheriff’s spokesman, Jason Johnson, Montana, the son of the NFL Hall of Famer Joe Montana was pulled over by police due to speeding around 4 a.m. on Friday. When pulled over, Montana refused to participate in an alcohol breath test however was arrested anyway for drunken driving. Montana was taken to Missoula County Jail where he was booked and then later released on a $685 bond. This is Montana’s first DUI offense; a misdemeanor traffic infraction. If convicted, the athlete will have to complete twenty four hours in jail as well as pay a $1000 fine according to Montana state laws.

It is even possible that the college football player will have to complete an alcohol treatment course required by the judge. The state of Montana has strict laws when it comes to drinking and driving because it has the largest fatality-rate due to driving under the influence. Those who are pulled over due to suspicion of driving while intoxicated and refuse to submit to a breathalyzer test or a blood alcohol test could result in a suspension of their license.

At Nate Montana’s initial court appearance, the athlete entered a not guilty plea for drunken driving. This is Montana’s second arrest due to alcohol since July 2010. Montana’s first encounter with the law occurred when he as well as ten other Notre Dame athletes were arrested for underage drinking in South Bend Indiana.

NFL Great Joe Montana's Son Charged with Drunken Driving, Yahoo News, June 3, 2011

Joe Montana’s Son in Alcohol-Related Arrest, New York Times, June 3, 2011

Web Related Resources

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence
California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

Continue reading "DUI Arrest for NFL Star Joe Montana's Son " »

A San Diego DUI checkpoint to screen motorist who might be driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be set up this weekend at an unidentified location according to the San Diego Police Department.

The San Diego DUI checkpoint will run from 10:00 p.m. on Friday until 4:00 a.m. on Saturday in an effort to keep drunken drivers off the road. Motorists who have been suspected of drinking while driving will be subject to a field sobriety test.

The DUI checkpoint was funded by a grant from the California Office of traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

If you are caught in a San Diego DUI checkpoint and fail a field sobriety test and have a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher you will be sent to jail and can sustain substantial fines. It may be in your best interest to seek legal council from a San Diego DUI attorney who has the experience and knowledge to navigate you through California’s tough DUI and drug laws.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Driving under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug in California is against the law.

If you have a 0.08 percent or more by weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charged with a DUI if apprehended. You could be facing fines and jail time if convicted.

SDPD To Set Up Weekend DUI Checkpoint, 10news.com, April 29, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI
California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Checkpoint Set Up This Weekend" »

A San Diego drunken driver who took the life of a Sheriff’s Deputy when he drove on the wrong side of the freeway was sentenced Friday to state prison

Sheriff’s Deputy Ken Collier was killed while in pursuit last February 28, when Jose Pedro Lopez Jasso drove while under the influence of marijuana, methamphetamine drugs and alcohol. The San Diego DUI driver had a blood-alcohol level of .14 percent. Sheriff’s Deputy Michael Pepin said in a statement “You ended the life of a great man.”

Lopez’ San Diego DUI lawyer argued for probation stating that his client was young and had no prior criminal record, but Judge Laura Halgren turned down the DUI defense attorney’s request and saying that his obvious disregard for others safety was “outrageous.” If the DUI driver had stopped as soon as he noticed that he was headed in the wrong direction, there would not have been a fatal pursuit.

The 23 year-old DUI defendant was sentenced by a San Diego Superior Court Judge to almost 8 years in prison for the fatal San Diego DUI crash, receiving 6 years plus a year for vehicular manslaughter and an additional 8 months for carrying a weapon in jail.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Driving under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug in California is against the law.

If you have a 0.08 percent or more by weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charged with a DUI if apprehended. You could be facing fines and jail time if convicted.

Driver Responsible for Deputy's Death Sentenced, NBC San Diego. January 8, 2011

Man Guilty Of DUI, Killing Deputy Sentenced, 10News.com, January 7,2011

Web Related Resources

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI

Continue reading "Man in San Diego DUI Fatality of Sheriff’s Deputy Sentenced" »

In San Diego, on the I-805 on Monday, a Marine from Camp Pendleton was killed when the driver of the pickup he had been riding in rammed into a tow truck at Interstate 8.

Authorities said that there was suspicion that the driver of the pickup was drunk while he was driving and arrested at the scene. The victim, whose name has not yet been released, was a passenger of the San Diego drunk driver riding in a black Ford Ranger. According to the California Highway Patrol, Joel Thomas Toovey, 19, the drunken driver, was on the I-805 bridge heading north over the I-8 early Monday morning around 2:30 a.m. when he lost control of his pickup, spun out and struck the tow truck that was pulled over on the right shoulder. The nineteen year old victim died at the scene.

According to CHP officer Art Athans, Toovey, who is a resident of El Cajon as well as a Camp Pendleton Marine, was arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and vehicular manslaughter. Toovey was taken to the hospital after suffering from major injuries and broken bones in the crash. The results of the driver’s blood test could take up to several weeks where investigators will turn over the report to the District Attorney’s Office where charges will be filed.

The driver of the tow truck had some minor injuries where he was being treated at the hospital. During the investigation, the I-805 ramp to the eastbound I-8 was closed for several hours.

Marine Killed in Suspected DUI Crash On I-805, Sign on San Diego, January 4, 2011

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Crash On I-805 Kills Marine" »

A San Diego suspected drunk and out of control driver with prior San Diego DUI convictions pled not guilty to felony charges for stealing an ambulance and leading San Diego police on a chase.

The San Diego DUI driver, 52 year-old Paul John Sos stole the ambulance from Sharp Memorial Hospital on Saturday around 6:30 a.m. San Diego Fire dispatchers used GPS to track down the ambulance which belongs to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

Officers were unsuccessful at stopping the DUI driver while he was traveling on Balboa. Finally the ambulance came to a stop after 6 tires were flattened by spike strips that were set out.

Sos, who is being held on $75,000 bail, has three prior felony DUI and three misdemeanor DUI convictions and is now being charged with felony drunk driving, DUI with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher, driving on a suspended license, auto theft, evading police with reckless driving.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Driving under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug in California is against the law.

If you have 0.08 percent or more by weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charged with a DUI if apprehended. You could be facing fines and jail time if convicted.

DUI Suspect Enters Plea Over Stolen Ambulance Chase, San Diego 6 The CW, April 7, 2010

Man Pleads Not Guilty To Stealing Ambulance, 10News.com, April 7, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Man Suspected of DUI Pleads Not Guilty Over Stolen Ambulance" »

A San Diego man was taken into custody at the Port of Entry in Utah for allegedly operating a commercial vehicle while driving under the influence of alcohol, according to a Washington County Sheriff’s Deputy Chief.

Tyson Allan Whitney of San Diego had stopped at the northbound Port of Entry off of Interstate 15 to purchase a permit after leaving Las Vegas sometime after 10:00 a.m. A port officer suspected that the 26 year old had been drinking by the smell of alcohol on his breath, according to Sheriff’s Deputy Chief Rob Tersigni.

Driving a commercial vehicle while intoxicated can have severe penalties. The FMCSA Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration defines commercial DUI as driving a commercial motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .04 or higher.

It is unlawful for any person to drive a commercial motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04 percent or more by weight. Whitney was arrested for DUI and later released on $1882 bail.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Driving a commercial vehicle while under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug in California is against the law.

If you have 0.04 percent or more by weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charged with a DUI if apprehended. You could be facing fines and jail time if convicted.

Man charged with DUI, The Spectrum .com, March 13, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI
California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego Man Charged With DUI in Utah" »

San Diego Chargers Vincent Jackson's sentencing will include four days in a work release program but no jail time after he pled guilty to his second San Diego DUI charge.

Vincent Jackson who is likely to be suspended by the NFL a couple of games was also sentenced to five years probation. He was also ordered to 15 days of community service from his January 2009 San Diego DUI charge, and pay a fine of $2048.

According Judge David Danielson, he said he would treat Jackson’s San Diego DUI case no different than anyone else with a second charge for driving under the influence. “I’m sure once it’s all said and done, we’ll definitely get the last laugh and hopefully our law enforcement will definitely continue to support us in the way that they have,” said Jackson in an interview.

The San Diego Chargers Pro Bowl wide receiver’s blood alcohol content was twice the legal limit in California measuring 0.17. According to his San Diego DUI lawyer, Jackson’s sentencing is standard for a second DUI offense.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Driving under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug in California is against the law.

If you have 0.08 percent or more by weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charged with a DUI if apprehended. You could be facing fines and jail time if convicted.

Chargers' Vincent Jackson sentenced to work release after 2nd DUI conviction, USA Today, February 23, 2010

Vincent Jackson DUI draws work-release time, Sign on San Diego, February 23, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI
California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Sentence for Vincent Jackson Includes Work-Release Program" »

A man who pleaded guilty to gross vehicular manslaughter in December for crashing his Lexus in Oceanside and killing his 9 year-old passenger has been sentenced on Monday.

Michael J. Wright, had a blood alcohol level that was more than twice the legal limit at the time of the crash. The DUI driver’s passenger was the daughter of a woman he was dating. The drunken driving crash occurred when the DUI driver failed to see that the cars on Interstate 5 were slowing down and he suddenly turned sharply to the left, slammed into a Dodge Caliber, hit a Honda CRV and then crashed into a big rig.

The girl was taken to Rady Children’s Hospital where she was pronounced dead. The mother of the girl who was riding in the front passenger seat of the 2006 Lexus when the San Diego DUI crash occurred escaped injury as well as her 3 year-old daughter who was also riding in the vehicle.

Under the plea agreement, the DUI driver whose blood alcohol level was about a .18 could have been facing 11 years in prison. Wright was sentence to four years in state prison.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Driving under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug in California is against the law.

If you have 0.08 percent or more by weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charged with a DUI if apprehended. You could be facing fines and jail time if convicted.

Man Sentenced In DUI Death Of Girl, 9, 10news.com, February 8, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

Continue reading "San Diego Fatal DUI Crash in Oceanside, Man Sentenced" »

A San Diego man who was convicted in September of two counts of gross vehicular manslaughter, DUI causing injury and driving with a blood- alcohol level of .08 percent or higher was sentenced to 16 years in prison.

Shannon Shrimp of El Cajon was driving under the influence of alcohol and methamphetamine when he crashed his pickup truck into a Lexus after losing control when he tried to pass other cars on state Route 78 on July 22 around 6:00 p.m. killing 52 year-old Joseph Edwards a passenger in his car.

The driver of the Lexus, 19 year-old Ian Kinney of Julian was also killed in the San Diego fatal DUI crash. His girlfriend Tessa Medearis was hospitalized for minor injuries.

The 36 year-old DUI driver’s blood alcohol level was .19 percent which is more than twice the legal limit. Shimp was sentenced to 16 years in prison.

Man Sentenced For SR-78 Fatal DUI Crash, 10news.com, January 8, 2010

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

There are serious consequences when you are caught driving under the influence in San Diego. It is in your best interest to hire an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer.

Driving under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug in California is against the law.

If you have 0.08 percent or more by weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charged with a DUI if apprehended. You could be facing fines and jail time if convicted.

Web Related Resources

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Man Faces 16 Years in Prison for Fatal DUI Crash" »

A fatal DUI crash in San Ysidro leaves an 18 year old dead and eight others injured, according to San Diego police.

Marcos Ramirez, 18, a college student was killed in a San Ysidro drunk driving accident, according to the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office.

The fatal DUI crash took place about 4:30am Sunday morning when two cars carrying a total of nine passengers collided with each other after a night of partying in Tijuana, at the intersection of Camino de la Plaza and Dairy Mart Road, according Sgt. Ramona Hastings with the San Diego Police.

All were taken to a local hospital where two people were reported to be in critical condition. The others are being treated for minor injuries.

San Diego police authorities are investigating the cause of the fatal DUI crash. The drivers of both vehicles who were suspected of driving under the influence were given tests for their blood alcohol concentration. Results are pending. No arrests have been made.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

In California, it is unlawful for any person to drive a vehicle while under the influence of any kind of alcoholic beverage or drug.

If you have 0.08 percent or more, by weight, blood alcohol concentration, you will be charged with DUI or driving while intoxicated if arrested. You may face a fine and jail time if convicted.

Police investigating fatal drunk-driving crash in San Ysidro, KFMB News 8, August 31,2009

Victim ID'd from San Ysidro Fatal Crash, San Diego 6 The CW, August 31, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI

Continue reading "18 Year old Killed in San Ysidro DUI Crash " »

The Phoenix Mercury guard Diana Taurasi has been suspended without pay for two games stemming from driving under the influence which she has pleaded not guilty to the DUI charges.

The team said in a statement on Thursday that Taurasi was suspended “for conduct detrimental to the team.”

“I am deeply sorry and embarrassed for causing this distraction for my teammates, the Phoenix Mercury, the WNBA, family and fans,” said Taurasi. “While I cannot say more with regards to the specifics of a case, I do want to make sure that everyone knows how much I appreciate their support and that I’ve learned a valuable lesson. I am committed to making sure a lot of good comes from this experience.”

Taurasi, 27, had just scored 22 points against the Seattle Storm for a big win. Unfortunately, the drunken driving guard is now facing three DUI related charges, including a charge for July 2nd for extreme DUI and speeding.

Taurasi’s blood alcohol level was 0.17 percent, which is over twice the legal limit in Arizona.

Mercury suspend Taurasi after DUI arrest, Sign on San Diego, July 16,2009

Continue reading "DUI Arrest Leaves Taurasi Suspended From Mercury" »

A Chula Vista cyclist who was traveling across the country to protest the government bailouts was killed by a DUI hit and run driver, charges have now been filed against him.

Chula Vista resident Jim Gafney, 65, was on his “Mad As Hell Bike Ride Across U.S.” when he was struck and killed by a drunken driver about 12:40 a.m. on State Route 50, according to Illinois State Police.

Charges were filed for Leon K. Marcum, 27, the DUI driver who left the scene of the accident was first cited for misdemeanor driving under the influence and failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident but after review those charges were dropped. Now he is being charged with aggravated leaving the scene of an accident involving death.

According to Attorney John Hudspeth prosecuting attorney’s may file felony DUI charges. Marcum’s blood alcohol level is also being reviewed.

“We are doing everything we can to make sure we prosecute this case appropriately given the end result-that a man lost his life,” Said Hudspeth.

Marcum’s bail is set at 100,000.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

In California, it is unlawful for any person to drive a vehicle while under the influence of any kind of alcoholic beverage or drug.

If you have 0.08 percent or more, by weight, blood alcohol concentration, you will be charged with DUI or driving while intoxicated if arrested. You may face a fine and jail time if convicted.

Charges filed in fatal hit-run involving local cyclist,Sign on San Diego, June 25,2009

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Chula Vista Cross Country Cyclist Killed by a Drunk Driver" »

Not Guilty Plea to charges of DUI manslaughter for Donte Stallworth, wide receiver for the Cleveland Browns.

DUI defense lawyer Christopher Lyons entered a not guilty plea at a court hearing on Thursday on behalf of Stallworth. Stallworth, 28, who is out on $200,000 bail must not consume alcohol, drive, and is required to abide by a 12:00a.m.to 6:00 a.m. curfew, stated in court documents.

Stallworth was driving under the influence of alcohol on March 14 when he hit pedestrian Mario Reyes, 59, and killing him in Miami Beach. According to Stallworth’s blood test results, his blood alcohol level was .126. Stallworth was allegedly driving drunk at about 50 mph in a 40 mph zone.

If convicted of the DUI manslaughter charge Stallworth would be facing a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. A date for trial has not been set.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

In California, it is unlawful for any person to drive a vehicle while under the influence of any kind of alcoholic beverage or drug.

If you have 0.08 percent or more, by weight, blood alcohol concentration, you will be charged with DUI or driving while intoxicated if arrested. You may face a fine and jail time if convicted.

Stallworth pleads not guilty to charges, ESPN, June 4, 2009

Stallworth charged in man's death, ESPN Sports, April 2, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "DUI Not Guilty Plea For Wide Receiver Donte Stallworth " »

A retrial of a DUI crash that allegedly killed a woman near La Jolla’s University Town Center ends in mistrial.

The retrial of Poway resident John Sedej, 47, ends in a deadlock as the jury foreman told Judge Melinda Lasater, on charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and two counts of driving under the influence.

This was the second mistrial in the defendant’s case which resulted 8-4 in favor of guilt. The first trial deadlocked 11-1 on the manslaughter charge, according to San Diego DUI attorney.

The DUI crash happened at 1:20 a.m.on July 13, 2007 at the intersection of La Jolla Village Drive and Genesee Avenue when Sedej allegedly ran a red light while speeding and crashed into a 2000 Ford Expedition killing Nancy Galeana-Ramirez, 28, and injuring the victim’s mother and aunt who were both riding in the backseat of the Expedition.

Sedej’s blood alcohol level was twice the legal limit, measuring at .19 percent, according to prosecuting attorney Jorge Jaramillo. If convicted he could be facing up to 13 years in prison.

“We believe the physical evidence and the light timing evidence proves Mr. Sedej did not speed or run a red light,” said DUI defense attorney Colin Murray.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

In California it is unlawful for any person who has a 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his blood to drive a vehicle. If you operate a vehicle while driving under the influence or DUI and are apprehended you are sure to face a fine as well as jail time if you are convicted.

Mistrial Declared In La Jolla DUI Crash Retrial, 10News.com, June 5, 2009

Web Related Resouces

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Retrial in La Jolla Drunken Driving Crash Results in Mistrial" »

San Diego County law enforcement was out in full force on Friday March 6th in all areas of Fallbrook for their “zero tolerance” alcohol enforcement operation.

Twenty four officers from around the county in two-officer teams participated in the alcohol detail to crack down on DUI and alcohol related crimes. The detail took place all over the Fallbrook area from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. for drunk drivers and public drunkenness.

“I’m extremely pleased with the results of the alcohol enforcement operation conducted by in the Fallbrook area,” said Lt. Phil Brust. “We successfully took a number of suspected drunk drivers off our streets and potentially saved lives in the process.”

The majority of arrests were made on South Mission Road and SR76. According to authorities, the officers performed 109 traffic stops, administered 26 field sobriety tests, issued 25 citations, impounded nine vehicles, and arrested 8 people for driving under the influence of alcohol. Two people were arrested for felony DUI probation violations.

“We have an Intoximeter {breathalyzer} inside the mobile command unit,” said Brust, which is used when a person is brought in and are instructed to blow twice into the machine. Both of the blood alcohol readings are recorded and become evidence if charges are filed.

“Our mission going in was to provide an increased police presence in the community and target impaired drivers,” said Brust.

The alcohol enforcement detail was funded by the Avoid Grant through the California Office of Traffic Safety. Costs for this type of alcohol related operation are between $10,000 and $12,000.

“It’s well worth it, when you are talking about the possible loss of life and/or serious injury that can result from drunk drivers, said Corporal Jason King.

The law enforcement agencies that participated in the DUI operation in Fallbrook included the San Diego County Sheriffs Department, California Highway Patrol, police departments from Oceanside, Carlsbad, La Mesa, Escondido, and Coronado. Officers from the California State Parks and the San Diego County Probation Department also participated in the detail.

“These agencies and others are committed to keeping the streets of San Diego County safe for all of us,” said Brust.

Alcohol detail comes to Fallbrook, Fallbrook Village News, March 12, 2009

Continue reading "San Diego County Law Enforcement Participates in Fallbrook Alcohol Enforcement DUI Operation" »

A 19-year old crashed his SUV while driving under the influence and killing one of his 5 passengers, after attending a party is sentenced today to almost five years in state prison.

On December 3rd Rancho Bernardo resident Richard Caldwell pleaded guilty to gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and DUI causing injury.

The crash happened last April 10th about 2:30am when Caldwell lost control of his car while DUI and speeding in a residential area of Poway. The car rolled several times before coming to a halt and killing Charles Amaro II. Two other passengers were injured. Caldwell’s blood alcohol level was .12 percent. He was also seriously injured in the crash.

The DUI defense attorney argued for probation and told the court that his client had no prior criminal record and has already suffered greatly because of the loss of his good friend Charles Amaro on his 20th birthday.

Judge David Danielson denied the defense attorneys requests and said that “the message needs to go out to the community that if a motorist drinks and drives and kills or seriously injures someone, there will be consequences.”

The defendant apologized to Amaro’s Family and his mother, stating that he takes full responsibility for what happened.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

In California, it is unlawful for any person to drive a vehicle while under the influence of any kind of alcoholic beverage or drug.

If you have 0.08 percent or more, by weight, blood alcohol level, you will be charged with DUI or driving while intoxicated if arrested. You may face a fine and jail time if convicted.

Teen Sentenced For Fatal DUI Crash, San Diego news 10, March 3, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Rancho Bernardo Teen is Sentenced After Fatal DUI in Poway" »

In the Vista courthouse today, a man is sentenced to 44 months in prison. On New Year’s Eve 2007 he was driving under the influence and led San Diego Police officers on a chase that ended with him jumping off the Coronado Bay Bridge with a police dog.

Vista Superior Court Judge Joel Pressman sentenced Cory Byron, 28, to 44 months in state prison which is the maximum amount of time under the plea agreement.

Byron pleaded guilty to one count each of felony evading and DUI, driving under the influence. He also has previous DUI charges from 2003 and 2005. Byron pleaded no contest to harming a service animal.

Byron who seemed drunk was seen swerving in and out of lanes in his pickup truck by Oceanside Police Officer Kedrick Sadler on State Route 76. When the officer activated his lights and siren Byron didn’t stop, instead he proceeded on State Route 76, running several red lights and hitting a car at College Avenue. He then turned South on Interstate 5, exited Pershing Drive and made a U-turn back onto the freeway according to Officer Sadler.

After driving onto the Coronado Bridge, the defendant struck a wall and got out of his vehicle. Officer Sadler said it looked as though Byron was going to run so he deployed Stryker his police dog after demanding Byron to stay put.

As Stryker was gripping the defendant’s arm it looked as though Byron was trying to fling the dog over the wall. As Officer Sadler tried to get to the dog, Byron put his leg onto the barrier and went over the side of the bridge with Stryker.

Byron was hospitalized with injuries. Stryker was buried at Camp Pendleton.

During sentencing Cory Byron admitted he was drunk. His blood alcohol level was measured at .17 four hours after the accident.

Web Related Resources

Man Who Killed Police Dog In Chase Sentenced, 10news.com, February 18,2009

Continue reading "A Man who jumped off San Diego’s Coronado Bridge Killing Police Dog Gets Prison Sentence" »

San Diego has seen an increase of alcohol related crashes in young female drivers. Is it because of the rise in young Hollywood starlet DUI arrests recently? A researcher with the Automobile Club of Southern California has noted that there could be a trend here.

Researcher Steven Bloch has done a study which revealed that with the recent arrests of Nicole Ritchie, Paris Hilton, and Lindsey Lohan there has been a substantial increase in young female drivers involved in serious alcohol related crashes.

In San Diego County, Bloch said that the largest increase in fatal and injury crashes were among females driving under the influence of alcohol between the ages of 21-24. There were 110 crashes in 2007, up from 49 in 1998 a 124 percent increase, Bloch said.

Another factor in the rise is because advertisers from the alcohol beverage industry targeting young women through the products it develops and packaging if provides. “Walking through the supermarket, I saw one drink that was packaged to look like a perfume bottle.” said Bloch.

According to federal statistics, men are twice as likely as women to be involved in fatal crashes. The majority of fatal substance related crashes are from men with blood alcohol levels of 0.08 or higher.

“A lot of folks don’t realize they’re impaired when they get behind the wheel,” said Teri Kern’s operations director for Occupational Health Services in San Marcos. “There’s still a stereotype that people have to be “drunk” to get a DUI,” she said.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

With young Hollywood getting DUI’s and the attention it receives from other motorists. Driving under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug in California is still against the law.

If you have 0.08 percent or more by weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charged with a DUI if apprehended. You could be facing fines and jail time if convicted.

Web Related Resources:

REGION: Serious DUI crashes up among young female drivers, study shows, North County Times, February 15,2009

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Crashes Involving Female Drivers on the Rise" »

After being arraigned in a San Diego court yesterday, a 45 year old DUI suspect pleads not guilty to driving while intoxicated and killing a 24 year old pedestrian in Pacific Beach while she was crossing the street.

Alan Lester Mabrey had only been in San Diego for a few days before taking the life of a vibrant Emily Cathleen Dowdy while driving on a suspended license and DUI last Saturday night around 8:00pm.

Dowdy suffered massive head trauma and died 24 hours after being struck by Mabreys pick-up truck. San Diego police stated that Mabrey fled the scene, while a passenger got out of the truck to help the victim. Mabrey later returned to the accident where he was then taken into custody after being spotted in a Burger King Restaurant.

The suspect had a .22 blood alcohol level, which is almost three times the legal limit to operate a motor vehicle. He has pleaded not guilty to five felony charges, including second-degree murder. Judge David Szumowski ordered Mabrey to be held on 2 million bail.

Mabrey is also being charged with gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, hit and run causing death, DUI causing death with a blood- alcohol concentration of .08 percent or higher causing death.

Mabrey has already spent five years in prison from his previous DUI. If he is convicted, he will serve a sentence of 15 years to life for the murder charge and an additional seven to nine years on the rest of the charges.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

In California, it is unlawful for any person to drive a vehicle while under the influence of any kind of alcoholic beverage or drug. If you have 0.08 percent or more, by weight, blood alcohol concentration, you will be charged with DUI or driving while intoxicated if arrested.

Web Related Resources

Man With Many DUI Convictions Pleads Not Guilty To Killing Pedestrian, 10 News.com

Fatal DUI Suspect Pleads Not Guilty, KUSI News San Diego

Continue reading "Drunk Hit and Run Driver Pleads Not Guilty to Pacific Beach Fatality" »

It happened again. The San Diego Chargers had another player arrested for DUI. This is the second time in a month. Jamal Williams the San Diego Chargers Defensive Tackle was arrested on suspected driving under the influence early last Sunday while driving on SR-94. He was pulled over for speeding.

According to the California State Highway Patrol, Williams gave a blood sample to test his blood-alcohol level. The San Diego Defensive Tackle was then taken into custody and later released. The results of his blood alcohol level have not yet been determined.

The San Diego Chargers general manager A.J. Smith said “It’s disappointing to hear about the issue involving Jamal Williams.” “We’ll continue to monitor the situation and let the legal process run its course,” in a statement through the team.

Smith also stated that “The Chargers have always been leaders and positive contributors to our community.” “We take our stature in the community very seriously. Through the Chargers and the NFL, our players help them deal with issues that affect all segments of society.”

Jamal Williams, who has been with the Chargers for 11 years was awarded this season the team’s Most Valuable Player Award that he shared with quarterback Phillip Rivers.

Interestingly, the Chargers were the first team in the NFL to implement Safe Ride Solutions. This is a program where intoxicated pro-athletes can call an off duty police officer for a ride home.

The Chargers were awarded the NFL’s Winston Shell Award for demonstrating dedication and commitment to developing innovative ideas and solutions for implementing this program.

Web Related Resources

Chargers DT Jamal Williams faces DUI charges Sporting News

Chargers' Williams arrested on DUI suspicion Associated Press

Continue reading "San Diego Defensive Tackle Jamal Williams Booked on DUI Charges" »

Shia LaBeouf who’s been filming “Transformers 2” on the US Navy carrier Stennis off the coast of San Diego has lost his license for one year. The “Indiana Jones” and “Transformers” star had his license suspended for one year which took effect on January 17th. This is following the arrest for suspicion of Driving Under the Influence on July 27th 2008 and refusing to submit to a blood or breath test that is required by law according to the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

This happened when LaBeouf rolled his Ford F-150 while making a left turn at the intersection of La Brea and Fountain striking another car. The actor was taken to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center for severe injuries to his left hand which required extensive surgery. LaBeouf’s passenger Isabel Lucas, who will appear with him in “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” due out next May was not seriously hurt as well as the driver of the other car. The actor was taken into custody and later released on Misdemeanor DUI charges.

Although there was insufficient evidence to charge the actor, Sheriffs deputies said that LaBeouf was not at fault. Simon Herbert the driver of the other car was later given a citation for running a red light.

A person who has been charged with a DUI in the state of California has 10 days from the date the arrest was made to request a hearing with the Department of Motor Vehicles, if the hearing is not requested his/her drivers license will be automatically suspended for 30 days after the DUI arrest was made. Second time offenders will receive a one-year license suspension.

Related Web Resources
Shia LaBeouf's Driver's License Suspended Newsday.com

Shia LaBeouf Arrested, Hurt in Drunk Driving Crash Freshnews

The Office of Traffic Safety reports that in California almost 1,500 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes last year with more than 30,600 others injured

As a result of numbers such as these, state officials and local authorities are taking on extra DUI patrols and DUI checkpoints to make sure everyone either has a designated driver or remains sober when they get behind the wheel to drive this holiday season.

Police departments across California will conduct saturation patrols and DUI checkpoints around the holidays, officials announced several weeks ago. These extra patrols and checkpoints will be funded by the state.

During DUI saturation patrols, police will have additional officers on the streets looking specifically for drivers who appear to be driving while under the influence. This is strictly additional police force and won’t affect police’s response to routine calls.

Be aware, drivers, as police have not yet set a specific location or date for the next DUI checkpoint.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

DUI checkpoints do work. Police are able to clamp down on drivers who should have called a cab and checkpoints can also serve as a deterrent to drivers who think twice about getting behind the wheel. 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.

Costa Mesa Police Plan Three DUI-Related Patrols, DailyPilot.com, December 7, 2008

Related Web Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

California DMV: DUI procedures after you are pulled over

Continue reading "Police Departments In Many Cities in California Plan DUI Patrols and DUI Checkpoints" »

The Marine Corps will court-martial a sergeant major charged with drunk driving, unauthorized absence, making false official statements and violating general orders.

Sgt. Maj. Mark A. Kellison has been charged under the Uniform Code of Military Justice with one count of drunken or reckless operation of a vehicle; one count of unauthorized leave; two counts of making a false official statement; and four counts of violating orders or regulations, according to the court docket and charge sheet.

Kellison most recently served as the sergeant major for Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego.

He is charged with driving under the influence with a government vehicle near Yuma, Arizona last July and missing a meeting of the Marine Corps Installations-West Marine/Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter and Meritorious Promotion Board convened at the Sonoran Pueblo Club at Yuma Marine Corps Air Station, according to the charge sheet.

He also drove at Miramar MCAS without a valid state driver’s license and drove government vehicles without a valid state driver’s license from March 3 to July 16. He also took his personal firearms in the government vehicle when he drove from San Diego to Yuma and used that same vehicle to get alcohol in order to get drunk.
Kellison also faces aggravated DUI charges in Yuma County, according to Yuma County Superior Court records.

A hearing was held December 16, 2008 at Miramar.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

No matter who you are, military or otherwise, driving while drunk is prohibited in the state of California. As noted above, military personnel will be charged in county court as well as within the military courts. 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.

Corps to Court-Martial E-9 Charged with DUI, MarineCorpsTimes.com, December 20, 2008

Related Web Resources

California DMV guidelines regarding DUI

California DMV: DUI procedures

Continue reading "Marine Corps to Court-Martial E-9 Charged with DUI in Oceanside, California" »

A Yuba City, California man was put into the hospital after a car accident last week, and now DUI charges may be pending.

Samuel Galaviz Jr., 35, suffered head and neck injuries in the single-car crash, reported the California Highway Patrol.

Galaviz was taken to a local medical center and later released, reported the hospital’s chief executive.

At around 5 in the morning on Monday, December 8, Galaviz was driving alone when his car missed a curve, veered over the shoulder and struck a dirt embankment. The car then tumbled over the embankment before landing in a ditch near the roadway. Galaviz was not wearing a seatbelt and suffered head and neck injuries, reported the CHP.

Police say they plan to pursue a DUI charge against the driver for alleged use of a prescription medication. Galaviz was not immediately booked at the local county jail because of his injuries.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Prescription medications often impair a person’s ability to drive safely. 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.

Crash May Lead to DUI Charge, Colusa Sun Herald, December 10 2008

Related Web Resources

California DMV guidelines concerning DUI

California DMV: DUI procedures when you are pulled over

Continue reading "California Crash May Lead to DUI Charge For Crash Victim" »

Three San Diego residents died in traffic accidents during the Thanksgiving weekend, a decrease from the same weekend in 2007, police report.

In San Diego county, California Highway Patrol officers arrested 119 motorists on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. This number is 18 less than last year.

Across the state of California, traffic accidents killed 32 people during Thanksgiving weekend, compared with 41 in 2007, and also across the state of California, the CHP made 1,530 DUI arrests, a decrease from 2007. This amount is 98 less than last year.

Fatality numbers reflect deaths reported by all law enforcement agencies in California, whereas the DUI arrests are those made only by CHP personnel.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Holidays are a time when people celebrate and enjoy a good time. However, it is easy to forget how much alcohol a person has consumed before getting behind the wheel. Stay safe and don’t drive if you’re at all unsure about your sobriety. 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.

Three Die in Thanksgiving Holiday Traffic Accidents, San Diego 6, December 1, 2008

Related Web Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

California DMV: DUI procedures after you are pulled over

Continue reading "Thanksgiving Holiday Traffic Accidents Result of Three Deaths" »

Law enforcement agencies in California, although maybe not yet in San Diego County, California are relying on a new piece of DUI enforcement equipment: handheld alcohol screening devices or alcohol-sensing devices.

Opponents of these new devices insist these tools used in DUI investigations violate drivers’ rights.

“The passive hidden alcohol sensor defies the rule and belief that preliminary alcohol screening tests administered via a portable device are voluntary for adults. Obviously, secret samples obtained from these devices are not dependent on your consent or voluntary participation,” reads a press release from SanDiegoDWI.com a year ago, which leads many to believe these devices are being used in San Diego County already, if not very soon.

Starting this weekend, DUI task forces from law enforcement agencies in many California counties begin holiday season enforcement. Participating members in the program will receive the new DUI enforcement equipment, including those hand-held alcohol screening devices or alcohol-sensing flashlights.

What are these flashlights? Called passive alcohol sensors, they work much like a normal flashlight and provide light for officers who have stopped someone for a traffic violation. However, the flashlight device can also sense alcohol. The sensor triggers a color-based measurement scale, which goes from red to green, based on the amount of alcohol it picks up.

"We've used them for a couple of years in Livermore," said Livermore police Lt. Mike Peretti. "They're relatively new to most agencies in the county, but some are starting to use them.

However, Michael Risher, a staff attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union of Northern California, said the tool may be violating people's rights.

Risher reminds us that the state's vehicle code requires a driver's permission to take a preliminary alcohol screening test when police suspect he or she may be intoxicated.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Flashlight alcohol-sensing devices may be a violation of a driver’s rights, but an arrest because of driving under the influence is not. 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.

DUI flashlights help Fight Drunken Driving -- But Are They Legal?, MercuryNews.com, December 11, 2008

Alcohol-Detecting Flashlight A New Tool To Fight Drunk Driving, KTVU.com, December 11, 2008

Police Take Covert Breath Samples to Detect DUI, PRLog.com, November 7, 2007

Related Web Resources

California DMV guidelines about driving while under the influence

California DMV: DUI procedures

Continue reading " “Flashlight” Alcohol-Sensing Device Soon To Be Used in San Diego County" »

The trial of Shannon Shimp, 35, of El Cajon, for a double DUI accident in July 22, 2008 will be considered in a hearing this month. Witness Tessa Medearis, 19, of Vista, testified about the summer day when the accused drunk driver’s car hit her boyfriend’s car in Ramona, California, killing him instantly.

“All of a sudden, I see this white flash and hear this screeching noise, and the next thing I know, I wake up, it's completely black, everything's gone wrong; there's a car on top of me,” Tessa Medearis testified in El Cajon Superior Court.

Shimp is charged with two counts of murder and two counts of gross vehicular manslaughter.

Medearis' boyfriend, Ian Kinney, was killed, as well as Shimp’s passenger, Joseph Edwards, 52.

Shimp had a blood alcohol level of 0.19 nearly two hours after the crash and is also charged with drunken driving causing injury. The legal limit in California is 0.08.

Witnesses testify that Shimp was driving a white flatbed truck east on state Route 78 near Ramona about 6 pm. He then crossed into the westbound lane to pass three vehicles, lost control of the truck and skidded sideways into a westbound Lexus driven by Kinney. The Lexus was pinned under Shimp's truck.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

The father of the victim Ian Kinney has stated publicly that choosing to operate a vehicle while under the influence makes any events that occur as a result of driving while under the influence not accidents. 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.

El Cajon Man To Stand Trial for Murder in DUI Fatalities, SignOnSanDiego.com, November 19, 2008

Suspect In DUI Double Fatal Pleads Not Guilty, 10News.com, July 25, 2008

Related Web Resources

California DMV guidelines about driving while under the influence

California DMV: DUI procedures

Continue reading "El Cajon, California Man May Got to Trial for Murder in Double DUI Accident " »

Sheriff’s deputies and state park rangers will be watching for intoxicated drivers and underage drivers during this Thanksgiving weekend as desert off-road season kicked off the first of November.

The alcohol enforcement is funded by grant money from the Office of Traffic Safety and will include saturation patrols and DUI checkpoints.

San Diego County is home to the second largest off-road community in the state. The off-roading season, which started on Halloween weekend, lasts through the Easter holiday.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

DUI checkpoints are funded because they work. Remember this as you head out for off-roading fun during Thanksgiving weekend. 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.

DUI CheckPoints Ocotillo Wells, SignOnSanDiego.com, November 1, 2008

DUI Crackdown, UnionTrib.com, November 6, 2008

Related Web Resources

California DMV on drunk driving and field sobriety tests

California DMV: if you are pulled over for DUI, what happens?

Continue reading "Winter DUI Checkpoints In Force at Ocotillo Wells State Vehicle Recreation Area" »

California actress Heather Locklear has been formally charged with DUI, reports the Santa Barbara, California District Attorney’s Office. Not alcohol. Not illegal drugs.

Prescription drugs.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Lee Carter refused to comment about the medications or amounts Locklear took, but noted, “Lab tests showed she had no alcohol in her system and no illegal narcotics of any kind. We believe that the prescriptions she was taking could have impaired her ability to drive a motor vehicle safely."

In July 2008, Locklear was treated for anxiety and depression, and many believe the prescription drugs in her system at the time of the DUI may be related.

On September 27, 2008, California Highway Patrol said the actress showed “obvious impairment” when an officer saw her car parked on a highway and blocking a lane in Montecito, but alcohol was ruled out almost immediately. She was tested for drugs on suspicion of DUI at a police station and quickly released.

Heather’s arraignment is scheduled for January 26, 2009 in a Santa Barbara court.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Locklear’s erratic driving drew attention from other motorists and then the California Highway Patrol, because erratic driving may be the result of ingestion of alcohol or drugs. 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.

Heather Locklear Charged with DUI: Prescription Drugs LATimes.com, November 18, 2008

Prescription Drugs Cited in Heather Locklear DUI, Chron.com, November 17, 2008

Related Web Resources

California DMV on drunk driving and field sobriety tests

California DMV: if you are pulled over for DUI, what happens?

Continue reading "California Actress Heather Locklear Charged With DUI for Prescription Drugs" »

Pomona City Councilman Elliott Rothman was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol after failing a field sobriety test at about 11:03 p.m. Tuesday October 7, 2008, and was booked for a misdemeanor about 20 minutes later. Early reports indicated that his blood alcohol level was higher than the legal limit in California (0.08), however further analysis of his test showed his blood alcohol level at 0.04, half the legal amount allowed. Charges have been dropped.

Rothman has served on the Pomona City Council for 12 years, according to the city's Web site, and was recently elected Pomona mayor in the November 4, 2008 elections.

Rothman said he was pleased to hear the news about the last of the tests.

"That's great news," he said.

Rothman said he could not explain why he did not pass the field sobriety test.

"I really don't know," he said.

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.

Pomona Councilman Elliot Rothman Arrested in DUI, San Gabriel Valley Tribune, SGVTribune.com, October 8, 2008

LA County DA Drops Pomona Mayer-Elect Rothman’s DUI Charges, Daily Bulletin, DailyBulletin.com, November 5, 2008

Related Web Resources

California DMV on drunk driving and field sobriety tests

California DMV: if you are pulled over for DUI, what happens?

Continue reading "DUI for Pomona, California’s Mayor-Elect Dropped After Blood Alcohol Test Analysis" »

Heather Locklear was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of a controlled substance Saturday evening in Santa Barbara County, California. Alcohol was ruled out, but California Highway Patrol spokesman Tom Marshall states, “[W]e believe Locklear was under the influence of prescription medication.”

Locklear was exiting a parking lot in Montecito around 5 p.m. in the afternoon on Saturday and a witness reported she was driving erratically—revving her engine and running over a pair of sunglasses multiple times.

Soon after, the same witness saw Locklear exiting her vehicle on a nearby highway. The witness than called 911, concerned for Locklear’s safety, even though she did not recognize the actress. When police arrived Locklear was seated inside her vehicle, which partially blocked the roadway.

Just two months ago, Locklear attended an Arizona treatment facility for anxiety and depression. Tests are pending and we will update when those results are reported.

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 href="http://www.sandiegolawcenter.com/lawyer-attorney-1239594.html">DUI if apprehended. You could face a fine and jail time if convicted.

Heather Locklear Arrested on DUI Charge, People, September 29, 2008.

Heather Locklear DUI Arrest, New York Post, September 29, 2008.

Related Web Resources

California DMV on driving while under the influence

California DMV: wheb you are pulled over for DUI

Continue reading "Actress Heather Locklear Pulled Over in Santa Barbara, California on Suspected DUI" »

New mommy Nicole Ritchie has apparently cleaned up her act. A judge determined this week that the former Simple Life has done a complete turn-around and is “in compliance” with the terms of her probation stemming from her 2006 DUI bust, reports E! News.
Richie, who was caught driving the wrong way on an L.A. freeway after taking Vicodin and smoking pot in 2006 has become a mother (daughter Harlow Winter Kate Madden was born January 11, 2008), started the Richie-Madden Children’s Foundation, and continues to comply with her probation restrictions.
Ritchie was placed on three years' probation in July 2007, served just 82 minutes of a four-day jail sentence last summer while pregnant, and even though only required to clock in for three weeks, Ritchie signed up for an entire 18-month alcohol education program.
A follow-up hearing has been set for February 20, 2009. However, like last week’s hearing, Richie, who instead attended a few shows at New York’s fashion week, will not be required to appear.

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 href="http://www.sandiegolawcenter.com/lawyer-attorney-1239594.html">DUI if apprehended. You could face a fine and jail time if convicted.

Nicole Ritchie Progressing Nicely, E! Online, September 10, 2008.

Nicole Richie's DUI regret, China Daily, June 30, 2008.

Related Web Resources

California DMV on driving while under the influence

California DMV: what will happen if you are pulled over for DUI

Continue reading "Two Years After her DUI, California Star Nicole Ritchie Has Gone the High Road" »

Marcel Vigneron, the reality television show Top Chef’s second-season runner-up and that season’s resident “bad boy” was arrested in late August early on a Sunday morning after attending a benefit gala in Laguna Beach, California, when police suspected him of drunk driving, reported RealityTVWorld.com.

Vigneron was initially stopped for speeding, but then an officer administered a blood test. The reality television show star registered higher than the state’s legal blood alcohol level, was arrested, and given a bail set at $2,500.

Vigneron posted bail and was able to then give a cooking demonstration at the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach, California, on Sunday. Vigneron is still able to drive despite his DUI charge and must report his arrest to the authorities in his hometown of Las Vegas.

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 href="http://www.sandiegolawcenter.com/lawyer-attorney-1239594.html">DUI if apprehended. You could face a fine and jail time if convicted.

Ex-'Top Chef' runner-up Marcel Vigneron arrested, charged with DUI RealityTVWorld.com, August 28, 2008

Ex-Top Chef Bad Boy Dinged with DUI E! Online, August, 28, 2008

Related Web Resources

California DMV on driving while under the influence

California DMV: what to do if you are pulled over for DUI

Continue reading "Top Chef's Second Season Bad Boy Busted on DUI in Laguna Beach, California" »