San Diego DUI Lawyer Blog

In Los Angeles, felony charges against Deputy Richard Patterson were filed by prosecutors for driving under the influence of alcohol while driving his motorcycle when he ran into the back of another vehicle.

The crash occurred on the 405 freeway on July 5 during the evening while the deputy as well as his wife was on the back of his motorcycle. It was near the Brookhurst exit in Fountain Valley when the drunken driver crashed into another vehicle. Two hours after the crash, it was revealed that Patterson’s blood alcohol level was above the legal limit of 0.08 percent when he hit a 0.15 percent. Due to his blood alcohol level, prosecuting attorneys want a “sentencing enhancement because of that.”

The thirty-eight year old drunken driver who resides in West Covina is to be arraigned on Tuesday in Westminster. The charges this deputy faces is driving while intoxicated resulting in an injury and driving with a blood alcohol level above the legal limit causing injury. While Patterson was being treated for hip injuries at Western Medical Center, his wife suffered from a knee injury and arm and hand abrasions. Luckily, the others in the vehicle they crashed into were not injured.

According to Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, Sgt. Pauline Panis, Patterson is still employed but couldn’t tell if he was on any sort of leave. If Patterson is convicted, he will face anywhere from probation to three years in state prison.

Deputy Faces DUI Charges in Freeway Crash , MSNBC online, November 28, 2011

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A San Diego Woman accused for hitting bicyclist while driving under the influence of alcohol was ruled that she will have to stand trial on charges of hit and run, DUI charges and last but not least, gross vehicular manslaughter.

On Wednesday, K. Michael Kirkman, a Vista Judge, found that there was sufficient evidence against the twenty-three year old drunken driver, Julianne Elyse Thomson to carry on to trial on January 23 after their long preliminary hearing that day. Thomson is looking at fifteen years if she is found guilty for the death of Arthur John Jacobs, a sixty-four year old Vista resident.

On July 27 of this year, Thomson’s Ford F-150 truck collided with Jacob’s bicycle close to the intersection of El Camino Real and Cassia Street. The accident occurred while Jacobs was on his way to work at a nearby hotel when the truck hit him around 9:45 at night. According to a witness, the San Diego drunken driver ran into bushes and then drove at a rapid speed into a parking lot of an apartment complex said Lt. Paul Mendes of the Carlsbad police. Jacobs was declared dead by paramedics on the scene. According to police, the drunken driver was found by authorities across from the apartment complex where she was hiding out in bushes next to her parked Ford F-150.

According to Aimee McLeod, the prosecuting attorney said that Thomson’s blood alcohol level was more than three times the legal limit of 0.08, measuring about .25 percent.

Woman Accused Of Killing Cyclist To Stand Trial, San Diego 10 News, November 11, 2011

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Del Mar DUI arrest for a well known Jockey on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol just hours after his big win on the opening day at the races.

According to the San Diego Police Department Lt. Andra Brown, the Jockey, Mike Smith, who is a Pasadena resident, was pulled over on Wednesday night near Carmel Valley Road around 11:30 p.m. in his 2011 Land Rover. Brown said that Smith was weaving and driving under the speed limit. This prompted a local officer to pull the Hall of Famer over and give him the option in completing a chemical breath test.

Due to his blood alcohol level, which has not been released to the public, the officer took the Jockey to county jail where he was released several hours later on bail. On September 1st the drunken driver is scheduled to make a court appearance for this incident. When Smith was contacted the next day after his arrest, Smith said "I got pulled over. I was taken down to the station and released. I am at work the next day. It's no big deal."

He later explained that the only person he is disappointed in is himself. According to the Jockey, he should have known better to not get behind the wheel after drinking more than two glasses of wine at 115 lbs. According to Joe Harper, the general manager as well as the President of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Racing Club, this incident will not legally inhibit the Jockey from future races.

Jockey Arrested On Suspicion Of DUI Apologizes, 10 News, July 21, 2011

DEL MAR: Hall of Fame Jockey Arrested on DUI Charges, North County Times, July 21, 2011

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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

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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

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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

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In Orange County California, a young teenage girl was killed from a drunk driver when she was on her way home from a birthday party.

The drunk driver whose real name is Austin Jeffrey Farley was charged with a felony for the murder and driving while he had been drinking. According to the police, the breath test showed that Farley blew a 0.20, which is more than twice the legal limit. Farley whose arraignment was on Wednesday is being held on one million dollar bail. It appeared that the night of the crash the Orange County drunk driver and his girlfriend had taken two cab rides that night before they proceeded to take his own truck to get some food while they were still both intoxicated; right before the crash occurred according to the district attorney.

In 2009, there was a misdemeanor charge of driving while intoxicated that Farley pled guilty to. He was even forewarned by the court that he would be prosecuted for murder if there was ever a death due to his drinking and driving. Court records also showed that he had alcohol related problems even as a minor when he went through two diversion programs for the alcohol related crimes he committed.

Although Farley was warned about his drinking and driving and the consequences that could come from that, and still choosing to drive under the influence anyway, he will be charged with murder instead of vehicular manslaughter due to his prior DUI guilty plea back in 2009.

Murder Count Brought Against DUI Offender in Wreck, Sign On San Diego, June 1, 2011

Continue reading "Orange County Drunk Driver Prosecuted for Murder" »

On Sunday night in Los Angeles, Rick Springfield was arrested for the suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.

A La Sheriff pulled the 61 year old rocker over around 8 p.m. due to a traffic violation, however on a breath test Springfield blew a .10, above the legal limit. Officers could smell the alcohol in the vehicle when they decided to issue the singer a sobriety test which he failed.

After he failed the test, he was taken into custody by the officers where he was released on $5,000 bail a short time later. Springfield’s rep did not comment. Earlier on Sunday the Jessie’s Girl singer was at USC where he attended The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. The rocker’s arrest gives great attention to the persisting problems in the United States of driving while intoxicated.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1.4 million drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol in 2009 alone. There are steps that people can take to avoid a dangerous situation that results from drinking and driving such as; assign a designated driver that will not drink when with a group, call a taxi or alternate ride, or take away the keys of a friend that has been drinking.

Rick Springfield Arrested for DUI, People Magazine Online, May 2, 2011

Cops Nab Rick Springfield for DUI, USA Today Online, May 2, 2011

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A San Diego Police Officer is under investigation for a hit and run crash as well as driving under the influence of alcohol.

Around 7:30 p.m. on February 22th of this year, San Diego off-duty officer, 41 yeart old David Hall was driving northbound on Interstate 805 in his GMC Yukon SUV when he crashed into Chevrolet Suburban. Officer Hall kept on driving after hitting the other vehicle when a Highway Patrolman saw him and then started following him on the freeway.

On a breath test performed right outside his Linda Vista home, the San Diego drunk driver blew three times the legal limit. The woman driving the Suburban told officers she was ok and left right after. Paul Neuharth, a former police officer, and now a San Diego criminal attorney explained that this incident could cost Hall his job just for the hit and run alone. Not only does Hall have this accident going against him, Hall also has been facing other legal dilemmas due to domestic violence.

This San Diego DUI case is going through internal review by the San Diego Police Department and is being reviewed by the District Attorney’s office. The issue of why the San Diego drunken officer was not arrested is still in question and the San Diego Police Department didn’t offer to explain why.

SDPD Officer Suspected Of DUI, Hit-And-Run Crash, San Diego 10 News, April 12, 2011

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In San Diego Officer Anthony Arevalos is possibly facing 11 years or more for the sexual allegations against him from female victims he would pull over.

Victims are saying that 40- year old Arevalos was trying to extract sexual favors from them when he would pull them over. He is facing almost a dozen charges including sexual battery by restraint and false imprisonment. On Monday, during his arraignment, the officer pleaded not guilty to the charges. There have been many victims who are now coming forward with their stories and filing complaints. The victims’ ages range from twenty to thirty.

Sherry Thompson, Deputy District attorney, explained in court that Arevalos would pull women over for “drunk driving” with the intention of asking for sexual favors in return for their release. Thompson described that " ... while it is still preliminary and early on in the investigation, we have identified the fact that many of these girls appeared to be students... young women, who he attempts to identify what it is that they think is of value in their personal nature, asking them what they're working on, what they're studying, so that he can identify for them specifically that they do have a lot at stake." He would use this as a scare tactic to elicit sexual favors from them.

For example, on March 8th, one of the alleged victims was pulled over in the Gaslamp and blew above a .08 percent on a chemical breath test. Arevalos explained to the woman that he would not charge her if she gave him something in exchange. The woman and Officer Arevalos went to a nearby 7-Eleven bathroom where he locked the door and sexually assaulted her. The 7-Eleven surveillance tape has footage of the incident. Another incident similar to this one occurred in December where he pulled over an underage woman on suspicion of driving under the influence. He asked her for sex in exchange for her release.

SDPD Officer Accused Of Sexual Battery Pleads Not Guilty, San Diego 10 News, March 22, 2011

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Last June, Vince Neil of Motley Crue was accused of drunken driving when he was pulled over by police in his 2008 black Lamborghini for going 60 miles per hour (96.6 kilometres per hour) in a 45 mile per hour (72.4 kilometres per hour) zone near the Las Vegas strip.

On the 27th of June, Neil was stopped by a police officer at 11 p.m. for weaving between lanes and speeding on Desert Inn Road west of Paradise Road. The rocker told the officer that he drank three glasses of champagne but was unsure of when his last drink was. The officer had Neil perform three physical tests which is standard if an officer assumes a driver is drunk. The first test was to measure horizontal eye movement, walking ability such as turning heel to toe, and to stand on one leg for 30 seconds where he would be given a breath test. Neil failed all three tests.

In October, the 49 year old rocker pleaded not guilty to speeding charges and misdemeanor drunk driving. Originally the trial for the charges was set for the 6th of January; however, the date was pushed back due to a new judge being assigned to DUI trials.

Neil will go before the newly elected Justice of the Peace William Kephart at 9 a.m. on January 26th according to an office spokeswoman of the Clark County District Attorney’s office. The Motley Crue rocker lives with his wife in Las Vegas.

Vince Neil's DUI Trial Postponed, Toronto Sun, January 4, 2011

DUI Trial Reset for Mötley Crüe Rocker Vince Neil, Las Vegas Sun, January 3, 2011

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In Santa Ana California, a rookie pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels was killed along with two others in a drunken driving crash caused by construction worker who decided to drink before getting behind the wheel.

Twenty four year old Andrew Gallow, the drunk driver, said “I know whatever I say will not change anything or the way you think or feel about me” before the grieving relatives of those who died in the crash. While Gallow spoke, he was not allowed to look at the courtroom audience; therefore he was facing the judge while speaking.

After his statement, the judge sentenced him 51 years to life in prison. In September, he was convicted of three counts of second degree murder and single counts of drunken driving, driving under the influence of alcohol and causing great bodily injury and hit and run driving. Gallow received fifteen years to life for each of the murder counts as well as an additional six years for the other crimes committed.

Prosecutors explained that on April 9, 2009, Gallow blew through a red light at 65 mph and t-boned the car that the Angels pitcher, Nick Adenhart and his friends were in. Gallow was already on parole for a felony DUI conviction when this DUI crash occurred and that his blood-alcohol level was nearly three times the legal limit. Courtney Stewart, 20, and Henry Pearson, 25, were also killed and Jon Wilhite, the fourth passenger, survived the impact even though his spine had separated from his skull.

Man Who Killed Angels Pitcher Gets 51 Years, CBS 8 San Diego, December 23, 2010

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The majority of Americans would associate New Years Eve and drunk driving to go hand in hand.

According to MADD (Mothers against Drunk Driving), the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas someone is more likely to get a DUI or hit by a drunk driver within that window of time. On New Year’s Eve, many Americans have become accustomed to find other ways of getting to their destination safely if they have been drinking, however, many of them do not realize that the dangers of drinking and driving extend throughout football season.

Alcohol consumption at this time of year seems never ending due to holiday office parties and get-togethers with friends and family. Then add poor weather, inadequate driving and other distractions due to the holiday season which would result in a possible driving disaster to occur.

According to FindLaw.com, these are some very useful tips to be DUI-free this holiday season. If you decide to drink the night you go out, be sure to select a designated driver who will not drink and make sure passengers get home safely. If a designated driver cannot be found, take a cab or use public transportation, especially if you are travelling alone. If you do get pulled over and have been drinking, try to keep your composure so that the officer doesn’t feel that you are a danger on the road even if you blew below a .08 on the breath test. This may include slurred speech, bloodshot eyes and swerving of the car while driving. If an arrest occurs, hire an attorney because drink driving does have serious consequences.

Don't Make DUI Part Of Your Holiday Festivities, San Diego 10 News, December 15, 2010

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In San Diego during Thanksgiving weekend, San Diego County Sheriff’s deputies grouped together keeping an eye out for drunk drivers in Del Mar and Solana Beach.

It had been reported by Sergeant Jason Rothlein that DUI’s in San Diego have increased this holiday compared to previous years. 164 people were arrested in the time span from midnight on Tuesday to Saturday night at 6 p.m. Two people were arrested for felony DUI. According to the Sergeant drunk driving is “cyclical” and that “it was down for a couple of years, but now it’s up again.” Rothlein also explained that the reason for increased numbers is still in question but it could be that people are abusing alcohol due to the bad economy.

Several drivers were pulled over on Saturday night due to the suspicion of driving under the influence. Those pulled over were given DUI evaluation tests. In front of a bar, a driver was pulled over because he smelled of alcohol where a deputy issued him a DUI evaluation. The breathalyzer test specified that the driver registered a .04 which is below the legal limit.

On the Coast highway on Saturday night, a man on his moped was pulled over by Deputy Mark Karo due to his headlight being turned off. The driver reeked of alcohol and the deputy provided the driver with many tests including a breathalyzer test. The breathalyzer registered that the driver had twice the legal limit of alcohol in his system. Deputy Karo and Sergeant Rothlein explained that if people are going to drink, then find someone who hasn’t been drinking to do the driving.

Thanksgiving Weekend DUI Sweep Nets 164 Arrests, San Diego 10 News, November 28, 2010

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In San Diego Juvenile Court Tuesday, a teenage driver charged with a felony DUI apologized to the victims he ran over while driving intoxicated. The teenager’s name is being withheld due to being a minor.

On October 18, the seventeen year old teenager was linked to a collision that critically injured Abraham Verde as well as his grandson, Izaiah Wallis, then eighteen months old. The collision severed Izaiah’s skull from his spine where he continues to be in medically induced coma at Rady Children’s hospital.

The alleged San Diego drunk driver confessed to driving under the influence with his blood alcohol level at 0.08 percent as well as causing great bodily harm to both victims in front of Juvenile Court Judge Dwayne Moring during his morning hearing. Attorneys pronounced that the teenager’s blood alcohol level was 0.21 percent the day the collision occurred. Izaiah’s parents, Lucy Verde and Jacob Wallis and Izaiah’s grandfather shared brief statements to the judge inside the courtroom. On November 29 at the teenager’s disposition hearing, the Verde as well as Izaiah’s parents will have the opportunity to speak again.

Wallis stated that “it’s very devastating to see my son in the hospital, fighting to survive.” Since the collision, Izaiah has had his appendix and part of his colon removed in addition to five surgeries. Izaiah’s family does not have health insurance and are uncertain of what the treatment is costing them. The teen stood in front of Abraham Verde and Izaiah’s parents and told them he was sorry for what had happened. He said that “I don’t want to live the life that I was living back then” and that he was praying for the victims.

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 wil lbe charged with a DUI if apprehended. You could be facing fines and jail time if convicted.

Teen admits DUI in Crash that Hurt Toddler, grandfather, Sign on San Diego, November 16, 2010

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A Drunk Driving charge for ex-teen idol David Cassidy after he was stopped by Florida Highway Patrol for weaving on a Florida Turnpike.

Former TV heartthrob David Cassidy, 60 was pulled over by Florida Highway Patrol on Wednesday around 6:00 p.m. after officers noticed that the ex- “Partridge Family” star almost caused an accident as his Mercedes was weaving on the Florida Turnpike.

Cassidy who was suspected of DUI or driving under the influence told officers he had just attended a funeral, had a glass of wine with lunch and a pain pill around 3:00 p.m. Officers later found a half empty bottle of Bourbon in the back seat of his vehicle.

The actor was given a field sobriety test and two breathalyzer tests which he failed. It was considerably higher than the .08 legal limit. Cassidy was arrested on suspicion of DUI and taken to the St. Lucie County Jail where he was released on bail the next morning.

Cassidy said the DUI charge is “Hogwash” and was confident that his blood alcohol level was not properly measured. If you are arrested for driving under the influence or DUI it may be in your best interest to seek legal council from an experienced DUI Lawyer who can explain all of your legal options.

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.

Actor David Cassidy Charged With DUI In Florida, 10News.com, November 4, 2010

David Cassidy DUI arrest in Florida, Examiner.com, November 5, 2010

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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

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DUI charges filed against a University of Florida defensive lineman after officers found him asleep at the wheel and suspected him of DUI.

Carlos Dunlap was arrested early Tuesday morning after a police officer found the 20 year-old defensive lineman asleep in his car at a stop light. The officer had been responding to a report of reckless driving. The red 2000 Chrysler that Dunlap was driving didn’t move after several signals had changed, that’s when the officer found the suspected DUI driver asleep, according to Gainsville police Lt. Keith Kameg.

About 3:25 a.m. police officer Robert Rogers arrested Dunlap for driving under the influence after he appeared to be to some extent incoherent and unbalanced on his feet after performing field sobriety tests. Dunlap was also reported to smell of alcohol and he refused a breathalyzer test.

Dunlap was taken to Alachua County jail on suspicion of driving under the influence. Last year the defensive lineman was named the most outstanding player in the BCS title game. Florida coach Urban Meyer has suspended the 290 pound, 6 foot 6 athlete from playing in Saturday’s SEC Championship Game. “He’s not going to play,” Meyers said.

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.

Florida defensive lineman charged with DUI, San Diego 6 the CW, December 1, 2009

Florida's Dunlap suspended for SEC title game following DUI charge, SI.com, December 1, 2009

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Senator John Kerry’s daughter Alexandra was arrested in Los Angeles early Thursday morning for driving under the influence, but was later released after a breathalyzer test indicated she was under the legal limit.

Film producer and director 36 year-old Alexandra Kerry was stopped by Los Angeles Police for driving on an expired registration. She was then taken into custody for probable DUI and later released on bond.

“Alexandra Kerry was pulled over for an expired registration and was released after the results of a breathalyzer test at the police station were under the legal limit, said democratic spokeswomen Jodi Seth.

Alexandra's court date is scheduled for December 10. If you are arrested for DUI or driving under the influence it is in your best interest to hire an experienced DUI attorney. Choosing the right representation for your DUI case is one of the most important choices you can make.

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.

John Kerry: My Daughter Was Not Legally Drunk, People, November 19, 2009

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AJ Allmendinger was arrested for DUI after being stopped by police early Thursday morning and failing a field sobriety test, according to Mooresville police.

The NASCAR placed driver said he make a mistake driving while intoxicated after having dinner and drinks on Wednesday. “I honestly felt fine, but I obviously should have erred more on the side of caution, particularly given what I do for a living,” said Allmendinger. “It was a bad judgment call,” he said.

The DUI driver will have his license suspended for 30 days after being given a breathalyzer test that indicated he was 0.08. According to North Carolina law it is an automatic license suspension. NASCAR placed the suspected drunk driver on probation until the end of the year.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI it is crucial you contact an experienced San Diego DUI attorney that will help you with your drunken driving case. You need to find the right attorney who is best-qualified and has the most experience with DUI cases, to represent you and your DUI case.

If you have a 0.08 percent or more, be weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charges with driving under the influence or DUI if apprehended. You may face jail if you are convicted.

Allmendinger placed on probation follow DUI arrest, Sign on San Diego, October 29, 2009

Sports digest: Allmendinger hit with DUI, put on probation by NASCAR, MercuryNews.com, October 29,2009

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MTV reality star Stephanie Pratt of the “Hills” was taken into custody for suspected DUI after attending castmates birthday bash at a nightclub.

The suspected DUI star was arrested on Sunday about 3:45 a.m. after blowing a .08 and .09 after taking two breathalyzer tests. The California legal limit is a .08. Pratt had just attended a birthday celebration at “Empire” a nightclub in Hollywood for Holly Montag.

Pratt was taken into custody on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. She was released later on Sunday on $5,000 bail.

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.

"Hills" Star Stephanie Pratt Arrested for DUI, Fox 5 San Diego, October 19,2009
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California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "“Hills” Reality Show Star Stephanie Pratt Arrested for Driving Under The Influence" »

Actor Mel Gibson is hoping to have his defense lawyer remove his drunken driving arrest from his police record, after completing all the terms of his 3 year probation.

The “Braveheart” star’s DUI defense lawyer, Blair Berk will be in court in October in an attempt to expunge Gibson’s 2006 DUI from his record. The actor who had his license suspended for ninety days has completed an 11 month 12 step alcohol program and a course in alcohol abuse.

Gibson was arrested on July 28, 2006 on suspicion of driving while intoxicated or DUI, after being stopped by police for speeding on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu. The Academy Award winning actor was driving his Lexus LS 430 about 87 mph in a 45 mph zone.

Breathalyzer test showed that Gibson’s blood alcohol level to be at 0.12 which is well above California’s 0.8 legal limit. Police also found an open container of Tequila in his vehicle, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputies.

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.

Gibson seeks to clear DUI charge, San Diego 6 The CW, September 29,2009

Mel Gibson wants DUI that led to anti-Semitic rant off his record, Haaretz.com, September 29,2009

Mel Gibson Charged With DUI, The Smioking Gun, August 6, 2006

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Continue reading "Mel Gibson To Have DUI Expunged From Police Record" »

Actor Jeffrey Donovan was arrested for drunken driving in Miami Beach after almost hitting a stopped police car, according to Florida police.

The 41 year-old actor who stars in the USA Network series “Burn Notice” was arrested by Florida police for driving under the influence after he failed a field sobriety test on July 12.

The suspected drunk driver told the arresting officer “Sorry I didn’t see the red light or your stopped car.” He also said, “I really think I’m only borderline and not too drunk. I had three drinks at the Fontainebleau. The only mistake I made tonight was drinking Benadryl with three glasses of wine.”

Before the incident occurred the officer heard a loud screeching noise and saw that Donovan had swerved his car to avoid slamming into his police car.

Donovan who refused to take a Breathalyzer test was taken into custody on suspicion of DUI and later released on $1,000 bail

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.

Driving drunk in the state of California will result in 2 cases being charged against the offender. The first charge processed will be by the DMV and another by the court system. Although, the case against the defendant by the courts contains two separate charges. According to California DUI attorneys these are known as the (a) and (b) counts (Vehicle Code 23152 (a) and (b). The defendant will only be punished once for both of the charges.

Actor Donovan arrested for DUI, San Diego 6 The CW, July 20,2009

Police: Jeffrey Donovan Arrested, Suspected Of DUI, 10 News.com, July 20, 2009

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California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Actor Jeffrey Donovan Arrested for Drunk Driving in Miami Beach" »

The city of San Diego has had a lawsuit filed by a man who is considering running for City Council next year over a 2007 driving under the influence arrest.

On November 18, 2007, B.D. Howard, 29, was taken into custody for the second time in 3 months for a DUI in connection with a solo car accident. He already had his license suspended for the first DUI. According to Howard in an interview, other people were driving his car.

San Diego police found an abandoned BMW on the off ramp of Interstate 5 and 19th Street that had hit a concrete barrier that turned out to be registered to Howard.

Police went to the suspected DUI driver’s home about a block away and found him at home. According to police they heard him shouting to other people in the house not to let the police in. Police said he smelled strongly of alcohol and denied that the car was his.

Witnesses say the man they saw driving the BMW was a black man wearing a red bandana around his neck. Police said that Howard was the only black man and they saw a red bandana at his home.

Howard took a breathalyzer test and was a 0.15 which is above the legal limit of .08, and was taken into custody. He was never prosecuted and the case was dismissed.

Representing himself Howard sued the city, state and the officers involved in the second arrest last year. He was seeking damages for false imprisonment, battery, assault intentional infliction of emotional distress, and violation of his civil rights. He said that the police officers lied about statements taken by a witness.

Wednesday, Howard said he was planning to drop the lawsuit saying he had changed his mind and he didn’t want to cost the taxpayers any money.

Council Hopeful Suing City Over DUI Arrest, Voice of San Diego.org, March 25,2009

Continue reading "San Diego Being Sued By City Council Hopeful Over DUI Arrest" »

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" »

San Diego Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson was taken into custody and released on suspected DUI charges after failing several field sobriety tests. Jackson who is on probation for a previous DUI arrest said in a brief statement released through the team spokesman that he didn’t think charges would be filed against him. However, one of the conditions of his probation is not to drive with a “measurable blood alcohol level”. Another condition of his probation is to “submit to a chemical test if requested by law enforcement”. Failure to do so could result in his driving privilege being suspended for two years. So, even if he is under the legal limit of .08 percent he could still be facing the loss of his driving privilege and some additional jail time.

Jackson was pulled over on Tuesday, January 6th shortly after 2 am on San Diego’s State Route 52 after appearing to be speeding, braking abruptly and weaving in his 2008 GMC Sierra said California Highway Patrol Officer Brad Baehr.

The San Diego Chargers wide receiver, who could be charged with misdemeanor DUI as well as probation violations, is looking forward to clearing his name and proving his innocence in the event that charges are filed against him.

This isn’t the first time the Chargers have had encounters with the law. In 2006 Steve Foley, linebacker for the Chargers was shot three times by an off duty Coronado police officer after an altercation in which Foley was arrested for driving under the influence and having a blood- alcohol level nearly three times California’s legal limit.

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Chargers Jackson Arrested on Suspicion of DUI Sports Network

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

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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

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

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

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

Sheriff’s deputies in Imperial Beach targeted drunk drivers with a DUI and driver’s license checkpoint last week in an effort called “Drunk Driving, Over the Limit, Under Arrest.” The checkpoint was at Ninth Street and Palm Avenue between 7 pm on December 16 until 2 am the morning of December 17.

The sheriff’s office promised that vehicles driven by those without a license or on a suspended license would be placed on a 30-day hold. Storage of a vehicle can cost up to $1,500 for that 30 days.

Other checkpoints are being planned for various areas in San Diego County throughout the holiday season. The checkpoints are funded by the Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

DUI checkpoints do work. If you are caught in a DUI checkpoint, your arrest is the result of many trained professionals doing their jobs right. They want drivers who drink to stay off the roads. 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.

Drunken drivers targeted on Imperial Beach street, SignOnSanDiego.com, December 16, 2008

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Continue reading "Drunken Drivers Targeted in Imperial Beach " »

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

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

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

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

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

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Continue reading "Former Fresno State Football Player Jason Shirley Found Guilty of DUI In Second Trial" »

James Poet, San Diego State University Associated Students President, has been arrested and charged with DUI and possession of marijuana.

Campus police said Poet was arrested Friday, October 17 at 3:20 a.m. as he was driving alone in his own vehicle on 55th Avenue near Remington Road near the SDSU campus.

The Daily Aztec, the SDSU student newspaper, reported Poet as saying, "I do have some personal issues going on right now." The paper also reports that Poet confirmed he has a court date and hopes to be considered innocent until proven guilty.

This news comes after the recent arrest of Aztec basketball player Lorrenzo Wade on burglary charges and last year’s arrest of Ronnie Williams on DUI charges. Also, last May, close to 100 people were arrested as a result of a 6-month undercover investigation involving SDSU students and drug activity on campus. The arrest comes shortly after a five-week university ban on alcohol at fraternity and sorority parties.

James Kitchen, Vice President of Student Affairs, wrote in a statement, "We are both shocked and disappointed at the news of James Poet's arrest which has the potential for serious consequences. However, as with any other student accused of breaking the law, James should be afforded due process and a chance to defend himself in court."

Kitchen also wrote "James has made many significant contributions during his tenure as AS President for which we are appreciative."

Poet's case will likely be turned over to SDSU's Center for Student Rights and Responsibilities for judicial review and potential disciplinary action if there are violations of the student code of conduct, a spokesman said.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Harsh reality for Poe, which is often the case for drivers caught driving while 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.

SDSU Student Leader Arrested, NBCSandiego.com, October 22, 2008

SDSU Student President Arrested in DUI Case, SignOnSanDiego.com, October 22, 2008

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Continue reading "San Diego State Student Leader, James Poet, Charged With DUI" »

San Diego State University’s basketball team is missing a few of its most senior and most valuable members in upcoming games. Senior guard Richie Williams had been suspended from play before the start of last year’s season because of his DUI arrest in October 2007. In January 2008 he pleaded guilty to underage drunk driving. The court suspended his license for one year and Williams was assigned to a first-time conviction program. However, the court issued a bench warrant in recent weeks after Williams failed to enroll and attend the program.

And this year, before the season even got going, senior forward Lorrenzo Wade was suspended indefinitely while he faces a felony first-degree burglary charge stemming from an incident on September 21.

Wade was SDSU's leading scorer in the 2007-2008 season, but police say he and another man, Brian Cepeda Ware, were involved in the attempted theft of a television from a woman’s apartment near San Diego State University. Wade pleaded not guilty the same day he was named to the preseason all-conference team in the Mountain West. All this came about after surrendering to authorities and spending a day in jail.

Aztecs coach Steve Fisher will be fair but judicious with both players. “We're going to reserve final judgment until this goes through the process, but I'm very disappointed and angry with a senior leader [Wade] that knows what's right and knows how to handle himself. We talk about it all the time, 'Don't you be the one that people are going to read about in the newspaper.' ”

Fisher said Wade's suspension began in early October. Wade, 22, is out on a $50,000 bond. If convicted, he faces a sentence ranging from probation to up to six years in jail.

As to Richie Williams, Fisher said, “I was under the assumption that everything he had been asked to do had been completed. Apparently, that's not that true.” Fisher said he first learned of Williams’ bench warrant when he was informed about the story hitting the Internet.

As to the team’s effectiveness in the 2008-2009 season, Fisher said, “We've certainly had to deal with more of them than you'd want, and I don't like it. . . . This should be a time where you're supposed to be excited about the first practice. This is an unwanted and unnecessary distraction that affects everyone.”

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

San Diego State University players are scrutinized because of their status as NCAA athletes. Even if you're not an athlete, driving while under the influence is still 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.

Charge Sidelines Aztecs’ star Wade, Sign On San Diego.com, October 16, 2008

Axtecs Williams Admits DUI Guilt SignonSanDiego.com, January 10, 2008

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Continue reading "San Diego State Basketball Team Under DUI, Theft Charge Pressures" »

Lionel James, a former San Diego Chargers player and now a member of the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, was charged with driving under the influence last month after being pulled over by a Shelby County Sheriff's deputy on an Alabama interstate.

The DUI charge filed against James comes two weeks after the former NFL player pleaded guilty to a separate driving under the influence charge on that same interstate.

In this most recent case, James was stopped by a deputy at 12:43 a.m. James had a blood alcohol level of 0.12, court records state. Alabama and California’s legal limit is 0.08.

James was charged with improper lane usage as well as the DUI. He was held on a $1,300 bond and then released.

On October 9, 2008, James pleaded guilty to the first DUI and misdemeanor theft of property. According to court records, James was given a 175-day suspended jail sentence, fined $250 and ordered to attend DUI school. He also received a 60-day suspended sentence and two years of probation on the theft charge.

That DUI stemmed from a July 24 arrest in which a deputy pulled James over on the same freeway. Just prior to James being pulled over, police received a call about stolen alcohol at a gas station. The vehicle and clothing description matched James, the police report said. Three bottles of alcohol were found in James' vehicle once police pulled him over.

James played in the NFL for the San Diego Chargers, where he set records for all-purpose yards. He was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2006.

Lionel James Charged with Third DUI Since July, AL.com, November 10, 2008

James Charged with DUI, AL.com, October 24, 2008

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TV news anchor John Boel was arrested October 19 in Shelby County, Kentucky for DUI and driving with an open container of alcohol. California law stipulates that it is illegal to drive with an open container of alcohol in the vehicle. If apprehended, drivers can face license suspension and jail time, however, with a previous DUI, charges may be more serious.

A well-recognized face on WLKY-TV in the Louisville, Kentucky area, news about Boel’s arrest spread quickly. Well-known in his community and an upstanding member of a prominent church, Boel’s has borne the brunt of Louisville locals expressing their disdain. Many were surprised by the news anchor’s behavior. “What an odd thing to do. He wasn't driving after drinking. He was drinking and driving at the same time,” was a comment left on the Lousiville Courier-Journal website’s story about Boel.

Boel has worked at WLKY in Lousville for 20 years and this year, the WLKY-TV Noon and 6 p.m. anchor received his 62nd Emmy statuette. Five of those awards have come for his work as a news and sports anchor. He has also won over 70 first-place honors in A.P., S.P.J. and Murrow Awards, as well as the Eclipse Award.

All awards aside, Boel refused a breathalyzer test at the scene, and was taken to the Shelby County Jail and later released on his own recognizance. In California, drivers who refuse the chemical test can be sentenced to jail terms if they've previously been convicted of DUI.

Boel's next court date is scheduled for November 25.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Even though a person is on television doesn't mean they are exempt from obeying 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.

News Anchor Faces DUI Charge, Courier-Journal.com, October 19, 2008.

John Boel, WKLY.com, October 29, 2008.

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Continue reading "DUI for Popular TV News Anchor, John Boel" »

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.

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

Continue reading "Former San Diego State Player Matthew McCoy Loses His Job After Felony DUI" »

New York Yankees up and coming star pitcher Joba Chamberlain was arrested October 18 for DUI in Lancaster County, Nebraska after police pulled him over for speeding. Police reports place his blood alcohol level at 0.13, which is higher than the legal limit of 0.08 in Nebraska and California.

Chamberlain, 23, was arrested early Saturday after Nebraska state police pulled him over for speeding and then noticed an odor of alcohol in the 2006 BMW 750I. They then saw the open container of alcohol. California law stipulates that it is illegal to drive with an open container of alcohol in the vehicle. If apprehended, drivers can face license suspension and jail time, however, with a previous DUI, charges may be more serious.

Chamberlain was taken to a policy facility and released. Chamberlain will appear in court on December 17.

New York’s rising star pitcher Chamberlain issued an apology to the Yankees and their fans, reported Newsday.

Since his major league debut in August 2007, Chamberlain has become one of the Yankees' most popular players. He has had tremendous success on the field, and his outgoing personality attracts fans. The Yankees have plans to place Chamberlain in their pitching lineup for the 2009 season.

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.

Joba Chamberlain Apologizes To Yankees, Fans for DUI Arrest, Newsday.com, October 19, 2008.

Yankees’ Pitcher Joba Chamberlain Arrested In Nebraska on DUI Charge, NYDailyNews.com, October 18, 2008.

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Continue reading "DUI Arrest for Professional Baseball's Newest Star, Joba Chamberlain" »

In June 2008, former NFL football star and Crimson Tide commentator was arrested for driving under the influence outside Mobile, Alabama. Police say Stabler was pulled over for a traffic violation on Alabama 59 and then subsequently charged with DUI after refusing a breathalyzer test. In California, drivers who refuse the chemical test can be sentenced to jail terms if they've previously been convicted of DUI.

Stabler posted $1,000 bond and was released from jail. His trial will be October 22, delayed because city officials had a hard time finding a judge to preside over the case. Stabler is reported as having “extensive legal dealings” in the area and a special prosecutor has been appointed for the trial, which will take place in Robertsdale, Alabama. In California, if convicted of DUI, your hearing will likely be in the town in which your arrest occurred.

Public records indicate that Stabler has two previous DUI charges, stemming from arrests in 2001 and 1995.

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.

Police Arrest Kenny Stabler on DUI Charge, AL.com, June 9, 2008.

Ken Stabler Arrested for DUI, RollAlabamaRoll.com, June 9, 2008.

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California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

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

Continue reading "Famed NCAA Football Radio Commentator Kenny Stabler’s DUI Trial Set for This Month" »

Eric Carmen was arrested last month for driving under the influence for the second time in less than two years after slamming his Range Rover into a fire hydrant in Orange, Ohio. The singer reportedly handed police a credit card when asked for his license, and his breathalyzer test was nearly three times the legal limit—0.234 (0.08 is Ohio and California’s legal limit).

A half-empty bottle of Grey Goose vodka was found on the passenger’s seat, TMZ reported. California law stipulates that it is illegal to drive with an open container of alcohol in the vehicle. If apprehended, drivers can face license suspension and jail time; with a previous DUI, however, charges may be more serious.

The police report showed that Carmen was released to his attorney on a personal bond. Carmen, formerly part of the band “The Raspberries” and author of the songs “All by Myself” and “Hungry Eyes” was arrested for DUI in 2007 and thereafter sentenced to a alcohol education program.

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.

It is illegal for you 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.

Singer Eric Carmen Charged With Second DUI, Starpluse.com, September 10, 2008.

Hungry Bloodshot Eyes, TMZ.com, September 10, 2008.

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Continue reading "Second DUI for Eighties-Era Raspberries Singer Eric Carmen " »

Titans defensive end Jevon Kearse is off the hook until January 6, 2009. Kearse was pulled over and charged with DUI on June 22, 2008 after Vanderbuilt University police spotted his sports utility vehicle weaving across a road. Kearse refused a breath test at the scene. Kearse’s attorney has told the judge that neither he nor the prosecutor have been able to see the police video of Kearse’s arrest. Results from a blood alcohol test are not known. California’s blood alcohol limit is 0.08.

Police say Kearse was speeding and swerving in his sport utility vehicle and when pulled over, Kearse had slurred speech, red eyes and alcohol on his breath. He claimed he had only had a Vodka and Red Bull and then refused the breath test. In California, drivers who refuse the chemical test can be sentenced to jail terms if they've previously been convicted of DUI.

Kearse re-signed in March with the Tennessee Titans, where he was the NFL's defensive rookie of the year in 1999, after playing for the Philadelphia Eagles previously. He has struggled with injuries and ineffectiveness in recent seasons and is expected to be a situational pass rusher this season.

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.

Titans’ Jevon Kearse Arrested for DUI, Fanhouse.com, June 22, 2008.

Kearse’s Hearing Postponed Until January 6, Yahoo Sports, September 30, 2008.

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Continue reading "Barring Video Evidence, NFL Player’s Hearing is Postponed" »

Hooman Karamian, also known as “Nik Ritchie” on TheDirty.com, a popular celebrity blogger website based in California was arrested for driving under the influence in January 2008.

It is ironic because Ritchie has a wall of shame on which he posts mug shots of celebrities who are busted for DUI and other nefarious acts. The Smoking Gun has released the police report from the night of Karamian’s arrest.

During processing after his arrest, Karamian said that the cop “did not know the things he did for the community, and that a DUI would not be a good thing for him,” the report reads.

Tests showed his blood alcohol count was .165, more than twice Arizona and California’s .08 limit. Karamian pled guilty to a misdemeanor drunk driving charge at the Scottsdale City Court.

His occupation listed as “website writer,” Karamian/Ritchie was the famous celebrity blogger who found pictures of Matt Leinart holding a beer bong for a co-ed. The rest of the story: Kurt Warner is the new starting quarterback for the Cardinals. Not that we blame Ritchie for that, but thanks to the Smoking Gun for exposing this celebrity blogger.

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.

Nik Ritchie of The Dirty Arrested for DUI Celebrity Café, September 4, 2008.

The Dirt On The Dirty, The Smoking Gun, September 4, 2008.

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Continue reading "California Celebrity Blogger’s DUI Dish Curtailed After his Own Drunk Driving" »

E! Online almost gleefully reports the ongoing saga of LOST star Daniel Dae Kim, who pled "no contest" to DUI charges last Friday. The popular television show's creators have no qualms about throwing stars off the show as a result of their DUI arrests. Kim is the fourth in a line of LOST stars whose characters were almost immediately eliminated from the show because of their careless driving habits (three other cast members were charged with DUI) while in Hawaii during LOST filming, reports TMZ.com.

Kim was driving erratically in late October 2007 when an officer pulled him over and administered a blood test. According to court documents, Kim’s blood alcohol level was shown to be .0168, which is more than twice the legal limit in Hawaii and California.

Kim’s license has been suspended for six months and he was ordered to perform 72 hours of community service, pay a $500 fine, and $212 in court fees.

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.

Daniel Dae Kim Cops to DUI, Loses License, E! Online, September 12, 2008

Lost: One Driver's License!, TMZ.com, September 13, 2008

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Television star Scott Michael Foster of Greek pled not guilty last week to DUI charges from his bust earlier this summer in southern California.
Foster was arrested in the early hours of July 21 after he failed a field sobriety test issued during a routine traffic stop. He was charged with drunk driving because his blood alcohol level was 0.08 percent or above. California's legal limit is 0.08.

After several hours, he was released on $5,000 bail and then returned directly to the set of his television show. Yahoo! News reports he apologized to his fellow cast and crew upon his return to the set. A pretrial hearing will be held on September 22.
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.

DUI Plea All Greek to TV Star, E! Online, September 5, 2008

DUI Plea All Greek to TV Star, Yahoo! News, September 5, 2008

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Continue reading "Hollywood, California TV Star Pleads Not Guilty to DUI" »