San Diego DUI Lawyer Blog

San Diego DUI arrest of a local Imperial Beach man was taken into custody for allegedly driving while intoxicated three times within a five day period said Deputies on Sunday.

Around 6:30 in the morning on Sunday, it was reported to Sheriff Deputies that there was a drunk driver on the road on Seacoast Drive in Imperial Beach. According to Sergeant Ted Greenwald, when Deputies discovered the driver, forty-four year old David Lakarnafeaux, the San Diego drunken driver was walking inside a bar located on Palm Avenue and Seacoast Drive. Greenwald also explained that when Lakarnafeaux was arrested by Deputies, they found out that he had already been charged with drinking and driving two times last week.

First Lakarnafeaux was arrested Tuesday by San Diego police and then again on Thursday by California Highway Patrol. The California Vehicle Code §23540 states that if a person is arrested for a second DUI within ten years of the first DUI, the person shall have to serve ninety days in jail and a fine up to $1000. As for the third DUI, according to the California Vehicle Code §23546, a person who has had a two time DUI offense and gets a third offense within a ten year period of the first two DUI’s, then the person shall serve 120 days to one year in San Diego jail and up to a $1000 fine. In addition, the person’s license will be revoked and could be issued as a habitual traffic offender for a three year period.

The three-time San Diego drunk driver was arrested and booked in San Diego Central Jail. He was also held on $100,000 bail. According to jail records, Lakarnafeaux is expected to show up to his arraignment at the El Cajon courthouse on Wednesday at nine o’ clock in the morning.

Man Arrested for Third DUI in Five Days, U-T San Diego, January 22, 2012

Web-Related Resource:
California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Arrest of Man with Three DUI's within 5 Day period" »

San Diego gross vehicular manslaughter and DUI hit and run causing death charges were made against an Escondido man who allegedly killed a female passenger riding in his vehicle.

Twenty-seven year old Joshua Goldbaum is looking at 20+ years behind bars if he is convicted for killing Brianne Burlington, the twenty-one year old who was a passenger in his vehicle. The San Diego DUI crash occurred last October when Goldbaum, Burlington, and another male passenger by the name of Nicholas McGill were all in the defendant’s Hyundai Sonata. McGill was able to leave the incident with minor injuries. Judge Richard Mills of the Vista Courthouse declared there was sufficient evidence for the San Diego drunken driver to stand trial in which the arraignment will be held on the first of February.

Last October 8th, Goldbaum was driving his Sonata when he collided with a Ford Aerostar around 2:22 in the morning at Bear Valley Parkway. According to a search warrant from the California Highway Patrol, a woman who witnessed the scene stopped to help him, however, Goldbaum convinced the woman to drive him to the hospital and then back to his home. The police arrested Goldbaum at his residence due to the woman finding his wallet in her vehicle and realizing that he was the driver in the fatal hit and run and then calling police.

McGill told officers that Goldbaum was in fact drinking and taking drugs hours before the crash occurred. Although lawyers said that the defendant had a blood alcohol content of 0.08 at the time of the crash, a fellow officer felt that in his opinion Goldbaum had too much to drink and was under the influence of marijuana and another drug.

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.

Man Accused In Fatal Hit-And-Run To Stand Trial, San Diego 10 News, January 19, 2012

Web Related Resources
California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Hit and Run and Vehicular Manslaughter Charge Against EscondidoMan" »

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" »

On Friday, Miguel Cabrera of the Minor League Detroit Tigers pleaded no contest for driving under the influence of alcohol, a misdemeanor he was charged with in Florida in February of last year.

Due to the athlete’s plea, he was offered a deal where jail time could be avoided, even though he initially refused to participate in a field sobriety test at the time of his arrest. Instead of serving time behind bars, Cabrera will be on probation for one year, perform fifty hours of community service and pay a fine. In addition, the first baseman will have to be present at a Driving under the Influence School and participate in a MADD victim Impact Panel. Cabrera’s license will also be suspended for six months.

Due to Cabrera’s profession as an athlete, the judge granted that he would be able to travel while he is on probation. The charges were also dropped by prosecuting attorneys against the twenty-eight year old drunken driver for non-violently resisting an officer and having and having an opened alcoholic beverage in his vehicle.

According to Gayle Braun, the chief assistant attorney of St Lucie County, she said that "since the inception of the case, it has been our position that Mr. Cabrera should be treated the same as any citizen." She also added that "He received no worse or better treatment because of his celebrity status." The arrest declaration explained that this scene began when police saw smoke coming from a vehicle pulled off to the side of the road. One of the officer’s "detected a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage" from the drunken drivers breath. The report stated that Cabrera’s eyes were “bloodshot and watery and his speech was ... heavily slurred."

If you are arrested for DUI or driving under the influence in San Diego County, then trust you case to an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer at the San Diego Law Center who will explain all of your options during a free consultation.

Miguel Cabrera Pleads No Contest To Drunk Driving, San Diego 10 News, January 6, 2012

Web Related Resource
California DMV guidelines about DUI

In Michigan, former Miss USA winner, Rima Fakih, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol after she decided to be the designated driver that night.

Highland Park police arrested and charged the twenty-six year old with misdemeanor DUI then hauled her off to jail about 2:15 in the morning on Saturday. Fakih’s attorney, Doraid Elder, said that he would not release his client’s blood alcohol level during the time she was arrested or where his client as well as her friend had been drinking that night.

Since the former Miss USA’s friend had been too drunk to get behind the wheel, Fakih appointed herself to be the designated driver. She too was too intoxicated to be driving and when she realized that she was, she pulled her vehicle over when Highland Park police noticed her. It was reported that Fakih wasn’t released until Sunday around almost five in the afternoon. Fakih’s attorney told the media that his client was "very saddened and very apologetic for the situation she is in right now" and that she would take full responsibility for her bad decision.

Elder also states that "Rima has absolutely not a blemish on her record, she's never been in trouble, she's a law-abiding citizen and she has always given back to the community, the main objective here is to make sure that she gains the trust and respect and not only her family and friends but from everybody else who looks up to her.” If Fakih is convicted, she is looking up to 93 days in jail and fines. There is even the possibility where she would have to do community service.

Former Miss USA Rima Fakih Arrested on Suspicion of Drunk Driving, Police say,CBS News, December 5, 2011

Web Related Resources

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

Continue reading "Former Miss USA Arrested for DUI" »

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

Web-Related Resources:
California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

Continue reading "Los Angeles Deputy Faces Up to Three Years In Prison for DUI Crash" »

On Thursday, San Diego County Sheriff detective Barbara Jean Crozier pleaded not guilty in court for the two DUI crashes she was responsible for back in August in Palm Desert.

The forty-eight year old who is a detective at the Santee substation in San Diego County is looking at an injury hit and run as well as two counts of DUI injuries in which both are felonies. In addition, Crozier is facing four misdemeanors for driving under the influence as well as property damage resulting from a hit and run. Witnesses told the court that on August 30th, Crozier was driving when she crashed into a few parked cars and ran over a pedestrian’s foot in a parking lot of an apartment complex at Fred Waring Drive and Town Center Way. Finally, Crozier was caught by officials when she rammed her vehicle in the water fountain in the entry way of the Marrakesh Country Club located at 47-000 Marrakesh Drive.

Crozier was then arrested and booked at the Indio jail for hit and run driving and driving while drunk. According to records from the court she posted bail on the sixth of September. The drunken driver who is free on a $50,000 bond appeared at the Larson Justice Center at Riverside County Superior Court Thursday for her morning arraignment where her attorney was present. Crozier will have to reappear in court December 8th for a felony settlement conference.

The drunken driver’s employment status is currently unknown because officials decided not to disclose that information.

San Diego Sheriff's Deputy Pleads Not Guilty to Palm Desert DUI, KPSP Local, November 17, 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 "San Diego Sheriff Detective Pleads Not Guilty for DUI Hit and Run" »

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

Web-Related Resources:

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

Continue reading "San Diego Drunk Driver Going to Stand Trial for Gross Vehicular Manslaughter" »

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" »

In Escondido last Saturday morning, a male driver in a Hyundai Sonata was arrested for driving under the influence as well as other charges for escaping a fatal hit and run crash.

According to Jim Bettencourt, a CHP officer, the collision took place at San Pasqual Road and Bear Valley Parkway intersection when the 27 year old drunken driver in the Hyundai Sonata crashed into the passenger side of a Ford Aerostar Van ultimately killing the young female passenger in the van.

The driver of the van suffered minor injuries and was taken to the nearest hospital. Bettencourt also said that after the drunken driver hit the van, he fled the scene. The 21 year old female passenger’s identity has not been released. The second passenger in the van who is 24 years of age suffered minor injuries where he was then taken to a hospital to get treatment. Another female passenger who is 31 years of age suffered major injuries and was taken to the hospital where she is expected to survive.

Joshua Goldbaum, the San Diego drunken driver was then caught and arrested for driving under the influence, hit and run as well as gross vehicular manslaughter. Authorities took Goldbaum to Vista jail where his bail was set at $100,000. San Pasqual Road and Bear Valley Parkway intersection was closed for five hours due to investigation of the crash.

Man Arrested in Fatal Collision Near Escondido, Sign on San Diego, October 8, 2011

Web Related Resources:

California DMV guidelines about DUI
California DUI: DUI procedures

Continue reading "San Diego Man Arrested For Fatal DUI Hit and Run Crash" »

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than a million people have died in vehicle-related crashes since 1966. If a driver is driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the chances of a crash is even more likely. From an officer’s perspective, there are several factors that go into determining whether or not a driver should be pulled over due to impaired driving. According to the NHTSA, there is a list of DWI detections to guide officers what to look for while on the road.

This guide includes but is not limited to:

Maintaining Improper Lane Positioning- weaving across lanes, swerving, turning vehicle with a wide radius and the possibility of colliding with another vehicle or object in another lane.

Speed and Braking Difficulties- Varying speed (stopping or speeding for no reason), extremely slow speed, problems with stopping such as jerky stops, too short of stops and too far of stops.

Vigilance problems- driving without the vehicles headlights, slow reaction to traffic signals, failure to respond to officer signals, and driving in opposing lanes.

Judgment Problems: improper lane changing, tailgating another vehicle, improper turns (too fast/sharp turn), inappropriate behavior towards officer (arguing) and last but not least, appearing to be under the influence.

Post Stop Cues: inaudible speech, balance problems, fumbling, providing false information to the officer, the scent of alcohol on driver’s breath, slow to respond to officer’s questions. * Any of these combined with inability to drive with headlights on or inconsistent signaling better the impaired driver’s chances of being pulled over by an officer.

For other information regarding driving under the influence, please visit http://www.nhtsa.gov

Continue reading "Detecting the San Diego Drunk Driver: From a Police Officer’s Point of View" »

A San Diego DUI accident that occurred in El Cajon leaves 2 men seriously injured according to the California Highway Patrol.

The suspected San Diego DUI driver, Dustin Beyer, 21, was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence after he allegedly ran a red light his 2007 Ford Econoline 350 van. The suspected DUI crash happened around 4:35 p.m. in the vicinity of Jamacha Road and Chase Avenue.

The alleged DUI driver crashed into the left side of a 2000 Honda Accord as the 35 year old driver of the Honda was in the intersection making a left turn. Both the driver of the Honda and his male passenger were taken to the hospital where they are said to be in serious condition.

The suspected DUI driver was arrested on a felony count of driving under the influence and is being held in San Diego’s central jail on 100,000 bail. He will be arraigned at San Diego Superior Court in El Cajon at1:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

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.

Man critically injured in suspected DUI accident, Sign On San Diego, October 1, 2011

Web Related Resouces:

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 Leaves Man Seriously Injured" »

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" »

In Pacific Beach on Wednesday night during a public hearing, the Pacific Beach advisory panel voted to try and make some changes in the way alcohol licenses are distributed in the local area.

The title of the new fifty-eight pages of guidelines is “Alcohol License Policies and Issues in Pacific Beach” and this report received an 11-5 vote from the Pacific Beach advisory panel. The recommendations proposed in these guidelines have resulted in a conflict between restaurant owners and the Pacific Beach board. The first recommendation that caused quite a stir is that the city should make businesses who serve alcohol attain conditional-use permits first before they can receive an official license. This is irritating to restaurant owners because it will be more of a challenge to obtain a license. The second recommendation is that police officers need to enforce the proposed regulations.

According to the Pacific Beach Planning group member Scott Chipman, he says “We like visitors, and we want more and more and more visitors…I wouldn’t care if 10,000 people came to Pacific Beach, as long as they’re not driving drunk and they’re not committing crime.” The Pacific Beach Planning Group, which is also the Pacific Beach advisory board explains that these new proposed regulations cannot be passed unless City Council adopts news regulations.

The board comprised of twenty members initially sent the report containing these regulations to City Council back in February; however, the guidelines were repealed in May because the report was presented improperly presented on the memo.

PB Board to City: Restrict Alcohol Licensing, Sign On San Diego, September 1, 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 "Pacific Beach Advisory Board Wants to Restrict Alcohol Licensing" »

In Los Angeles, actress Estella Warren appeared in court Friday due to her May 2011 DUI arrest.

Warren pleaded no-contest for her DUI charge and the Judge ordered that the she go into a residential rehab facility for six months. Frank Mateljan, a Los Angeles city attorney’s spokesman explained that in addition to residential rehab, Warren is sentenced to five years of informal probation. According to the Associated Press, on October 7th of this year, Warren will have to attend a hearing about whether or not she will have to pay restitution.

The actress alongside Mark Wahlberg starred in 2001 blockbuster Planet of the Apes crashed her Prius while driving under the influence of alcohol into three parked cars. Warren was also charged for assaulting an officer. According to a representative for the L.A. Sheriff’s Dept, Warren “was uncooperative and demanding. She removed her handcuffs and fled the police station. She was captured and transported back." The actress had a previous stint with the law when she was arrested in 2007 for a DUI conviction.

According to Warren’s representative, the actress said "I take my actions and their consequences very seriously. I can't express enough how grateful I am that no one was injured or hurt. Moving forward I am focusing all my efforts on my career, my family and being a good influence [on] others."

Estella Warren Pleads No Contest to DUI, People Magazine Online, August 20, 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 "Actress Estella Warren Pleads No-Contest For May DUI Charge" »

San Diego DUI checkpoints that were set up in Chula Vista and San Diego on Friday nets 19 people under arrest for DUI.

The San Diego DUI checkpoint was set up in Mission Bay Park in the 2600 block of Ingraham Street on Friday from approximately 10:47 p.m. to 3:15 a.m. Thirteen people were taken into custody by the San Diego Police Department on suspicion of drunken driving.

Another DUI checkpoint was set up in Chula Vista on Friday in the 1200 block of Olympic Parkway. The Chula Vista DUI operation was held between 8:15 p.m. to 1:45 a.m. with almost 3200 cars passing through. According to the San Diego Sheriff’s department, there were six arrests for driving under the influence, and another three people were arrested for driving on a suspended license.

The DUI checkpoints are held to make people aware of the dangers of drinking and driving. “This was a successful operation, both in the number of impaired drivers and dangerous drivers removed from the street, and also in the amount of public awareness generated,” said Sheriff’s Sgt. Jason Rothlein.

If you find yourself arrested for San Diego DUI it might be in your best interest to seek legal representation from an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer.

19 Drunken Drivers Nabbed In DUI Checkpoints, August 15, 2011

Web Related Resources:

California DUI: DUI procedures

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Checkpoint Nets 19 DUI Arrests" »

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" »

A DUI arrest in San Diego was made due to a near fatal crash involving a motorcyclist that could result in three felonies if the motorcyclist doesn't survive.

Jessica Bloom was driving her white Chevy Blazer in Rancho Bernardo on Sunday around 12:30 in the afternoon when Bloom accelerated in her SUV and rear ended a motorcycle. David Smith, the motorcyclist as well as a Marine, was thrown from his bike on impact. The young, drunk, San Diego driver left the scene immediately without stopping and did not pull over and get out of her SUV. Luckily, there were witnesses that saw the entire accident.

The motorcyclist was taken to Palomar Medical Center in Escondido where he suffered from major head trauma and injuries to his liver and spleen. Due to the victim’s condition, there is a possibility he will not live due to his head injury. As of now, Bloom could be charged with felony DUI, felony hit and run and possibly manslaughter. The young, drunk driver was quickly arrested due to a witness who followed her when she tried to flee the scene. According to Traffic Det. Dan Wall, “People who watched the accident followed to her apartment and waited for police to arrive and take her into custody…I wish everybody would do it. It helps us out a heck of a lot.”

Wall also adds “Don’t put yourself in jeopardy or peril by driving 100 miles per hour (to follow someone),” he said. “In this case, they kept a reasonable distance and did not put themselves in jeopardy. That’s fine.”

Rancho Bernardo Hit-and-Run Driver Facing Two Felony Charges, PomeradoNews.com, August 1, 2011

Web Related Sources:

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 Woman Faces Two Felony Charges for DUI Hit and Run" »

DUI Arrest in New York City for Al Pacino’s twenty-one year old daughter, Julie Pacino.

At 1:05 in the morning on Saturday Pacino drove through a Manhattan DUI checkpoint at West Houston Street in her black Mercedes. According to James Duffy, an officer, Pacino “had bloodshot, watery eyes, slurred speech and the strong smell of alcohol on her breath. She admitted to drinking three beers and smoking marijuana prior to entering the checkpoint." Although Pacino’s blood alcohol content at the time of driving has not yet been released to the public, officers claim that she was over the legal limit. Around 1:35 in the morning, Pacino was taken into custody due to her condition.

When her father heard of the arrest, he hopped on the next plane to New York City from Los Angeles where he was filming his new movie. It wasn’t until early afternoon where the Manhattan drunk driver was arraigned and then released from Manhattan Detention Complex. Information about an attorney is not yet available.

Julie Pacino is the daughter of Al Pacino and Jan Tarrant, an acting coach. In 2007 Pacino graduated Tappan Zee High School and in enrolled at University of California Los Angeles. She is known to be a star softball player in high school as well as college.

Al Pacino's Daughter Arrested For DUI, San Diego 10 News, August 1, 2011

Julie Pacino DUI: Al Pacino's Daughter Arrested In NYC, Huffington Post, July 30, 2011

Web Related Resources

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

California DUI: DUI procedures

Continue reading "DUI Arrest for Al Pacino's Daughter" »

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" »

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

Web Related Resources

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "Del Mar DUI Arrest for Jockey Hall of Famer " »

A San Diego DUI crash in the Linda Vista area leaves the alleged drunk driver dead and four others hurt.

The San Diego DUI Crash happened around 8:40 in the morning on Saturday near Fashions Hills Boulevard on Ulric Street. The suspected drunk driver, Bryan Larman, 28, died after being taken to the hospital with massive head trauma, according to the county’s Medical Examiner’s Office.

Larman was driving under the influence in his Mitsubishi when he lost control of his car while trying to pass another car, then crashed into a Nissan Frontier on the other side of the road carrying four people. The 2 adults and 2 children’s injuries are reported to be “moderate to Major,” according to a San Diego Police Officer.

If you have a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent or more, you will be charged with DUI or driving under the influence if apprehended in the state of California. If convicted you can face substantial fines and jail time.

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 killed in Linda Vista DUI crash ID'd, KFMB News 8, July 17, 2011
Share7

1 Dead, 4 Hurt In Linda Vista-Area DUI Crash, 10News.com, July 17, 2010

Web Related Resources:California DMV:

Pulled over for DUI

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Crash in Linda Vista Leaves One Person Dead" »

DUI arrest In Moreno Valley for Rodney King who was arrested on suspicion of driving while under the influence of marijuana in his 1994 Mitsubishi.

King told CNN that he uses medical marijuana to cope with migraine headaches as well as lower back pain but did note that he should not have been driving while under the influence of the substance. The Moreno Valley police report explained that King committed “several traffic violations” however; speeding was not one of them. When King was signaled to pull over his vehicle, police asked him to participate in a field sobriety test which he agreed to complete. According to King, he was driving to his friend’s home that recently was purchased in Moreno Valley.

This incident is not his only run in with law. In 1996, King served a 90 day jail sentence for a hit and run he committed with his wife at the time. In 2004, he was arrested for driving while impaired. Last March, King was cited for not driving with a license in Arcadia California.

In the beginning of this year a CNN documentary aired with Rodney King telling CNN’s Don Lemon about his lifelong struggle with alcohol. King said “I'll always have an issue when it comes to alcohol. My dad was an alcoholic, the addiction part is in my blood…what I've learned to do is to arrest my -- addiction, arrest it myself, so I don't get arrested." When the Riverside District Attorney’s Office receives King’s case, it will be up to them whether or not they want to take legal action against King.

Rodney King Admits Using Prescription Marijuana, San Diego 10 News, July 15, 2011

Web Related Resources

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

Continue reading "DUI Arrest for Rodney King for Driving Under the Influence of Marijuana" »

In DeKalb Georgia, Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Ward, who had just won Dancing with the Stars was booked on a DUI charge very early on Saturday morning and was released later that day on $1000 bail. Ward was pulled over because he hit a curb with his car which is a sign of impaired driving. At the time of the arrest, cops explained that the football star showed symptoms of drinking such as bloodshot eyes. An officer who was speaking with Ward explained that he could smell the alcohol on his breath. According to a blood alcohol test that was taken by Ward, the test results showed that he had a positive reading of .128. In addition, Ward failed a series of field sobriety tests that were issued to him. When police asked him to complete the breath test, the wide receiver refused therefore was taken to jail.

According to Andrew Ree, Ward’s manager and agent, Ree explains that "Hines is deeply saddened by this incident and apologizes to his fans and the Steelers organization for this distraction.” Ward is scheduled to appear in court on October 6 due to his misdemeanor DUI charge.

Ward told officers at the time of his arrest that he had about two Corona beers three hours before he got behind the wheel. Since Ward is denying the DUI charges, then there should be some explanation as to why someone would fail a field sobriety test while sober!

Police Report Released On Hines Ward DUI Arrest, WTAE.com, July 12, 2011

Police: Hines Ward Failed Sobriety Tests, Hit curb, NBC Sports, July 11, 2011

Hines Ward, Dancing with the Stars Champ, Arrested for DUI, People Magazine Online, July 9, 2011

Web Related Resources

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "DUI Arrest for Football Star Hines Ward" »

DUI Charge In Fresno over Fourth of July weekend, for ex-Charger Lorenzo Neal who was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

According to a highway Patrol officer, the former fullback "Just ran off the road, struck a pole... nothing real major about it…luckily, he didn’t hit anyone.” Since the DUI incident, fans have been questioning his character and calling him a hypocrite because Neal was involved with Safe Ride Solutions, a group that provides safe rides to athletes who have had too much to drink. A Safe Rides Solutions promotional video advertises that "One wrong decision, one wrong DUI arrest, one accident can destroy it all in a second," and then Neal comes on camera by saying "They will come pick you up as well as your car and your friends and take you home safely."

According to a Highway Patrol officer, Neal failed a field sobriety test shortly after a round of golf. Neal’s response to the whole DUI incident was heard on air on Fresno’s KMJ radio station. "The truth of the matter is I wasn't double over the limit...I was very close to the limit. I mean, 0.11 or 0.10 and the limit is 0.08, so whatever." He also stated that he feels that the whole accident is being exaggerated and blown way of out proportion.

Luckily for the former Charger is that the California Highway Patrol did not take him into custody. Instead Neal was free to go with a friend; however he will have to attend his scheduled court appearance.

Former Chargers Fullback Arrested On Suspicion Of DUI, 10 News, July 6, 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 "San Diego Former Charger Lorenzo Neal Arrested for DUI" »

In San Diego according to a few California state lawmakers, there isn’t much being accomplished with the DUI checkpoints, except the fact the checkpoints are bringing in tons of money.

Due to a thorough inspection of California police agencies, the results found that there is an inconsistency of drivers being arrested for driving under the influence and the number of cars being seized. For example, there were about 100 or more DUI arrests in Chula Vista but over 700 impounded vehicles. In 2010 at a DUI checkpoint, five drunk drivers were arrested by police in El Cajon, however there were 90 or so cars impounded.

The city of Escondido has the highest record of impound to DUI arrest ratios in all of San Diego County. The ratio was one DUI arrest to 12 impounded vehicles. According to Lt. Craig Carter of Escondido police explains that it isn’t about making money off impounded cars. Lt. Carter says “absolutely not. It’s about safety. It’s always been about the safety.” Lt. Carter also explains that there is a reason for odd ratio of DUI arrests and number of impounded cars. “Escondido has a higher number of unlicensed drivers based on the number of tows we appear to do. One of the ways we find that is through the DUI checkpoints."

Escondido makes $100,000 every year on towing contracts alone which concerns the state leaders of possible corruption. In Bell, California, corruption has already occurred because the city is making millions of dollars partly from the money coming in from impounded vehicles.

Millions Made From Cars Impounded At DUI Checkpoints, San Diego10 News, July 5, 2011

Web Related Resources:

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

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Making Millions Off of DUI Checkpoints" »

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" »

A San Diego DUI driver has pled guilty to a hit and run crash that killed a homeless woman in Chula Vista.

Angel Rodrigo Gutierrez’ blood alcohol was more than three times the legal limit when it was measured at .29 percent, when he was arrested, nearly five hours after the hit and run accident occurred. The suspected drunk driver fled the scene after he hit a pedestrian, 54 year- old Robyn O’ Quinn while she was crossing the street on Third Avenue.

The fatal DUI accident happened on December 26, about 8:30 p.m. Chula Vista police found the ditched car almost an hour later in the 300 block of Moss Street. Gutierrez was arrested at his home around 2:40 am on Date Street.

The 23 year-old San Diego drunk drivers hearing is on July 28 where he will be sentenced by Judge Kathleen Lewis to six years and four months in jail. If you are charged with a San Diego DUI it would be in your best interest to talk to a San Diego 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.

Drunk driver pleads guilty to fatal hit and run, KFMB News 8, June 22, 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 "San Diego Drunk Driver Pleads Guilty to Vehicular Manslaughter" »

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" »

In Sacramento, North County Assemblyman Martin Garrick was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

The drunken driver apologized in his statement saying the incident was a “lapse in judgment” and that he well aware of the consequences that comes from drinking and driving. It was reported that California Highway Patrol officers spotted the sedan Garrick was driving when it sped through a 25mph zone in the downtown area of Sacramento. Garrick even blew through a stop sign. When police tried to pull Garrick over, the assemblyman kept on driving and accelerated until he pulled into the Capitol building’s parking garage.

Officers who spotted Garrick noticed that he showed signs of driving under the influence in which Garrick had to perform a field sobriety test. After he failed the test, officers took the drunken assemblyman to the station where he would later be released. Fifty-eight year old Garrick faces a misdemeanor DUI count.

The following is Garrick’s statement regarding his DUI. "I am deeply sorry for my lapse of judgment yesterday evening. Driving while under the influence of alcohol is dangerous. I apologize to my family for the embarrassment I have caused them, and I hope they will forgive me for my actions. I also apologize to my constituents. They have the right to hold their elected representative to a high standard, and I regret that it was one I failed to meet last night. I will strive to never let them down again. Last night's incident was isolated, but it served as a stark wake-up call. I promise my family and my constituents in the 74th District that I will never drink and drive again."

Local Assemblyman Arrested On Suspicion Of DUI, 10 News, June 16, 2011

Web Related Resources

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

California DUI: DUI procedures

Continue reading "DUI Arrest for Assemblyman Martin Garrick " »

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" »

San Diego City attorney’s office drops fifteen San Diego DUI cases involving ex officer Anthony Arevalos.

The 15 DUI cases were dropped by the city attorney’s office between March 25 and April 21 of 2011. According to the city attorney, 14 of the DUI cases that were dismissed had blood alcohol levels of .08 or higher. Only one had a .05 BAC and was under 21. Former San Diego Police Officer Anthony Arevalos, 40, who was arrested on March 11 after a woman protested that she had been sexually assaulted by him pleaded not guilty to 18 felony counts.

One San Diego DUI attorney said his client is “elated” that her case has been dropped. “They looked at everything and decided, hey, this isn’t a murder case, this isn’t a rape case, this is a DUI. It’s serious, but it’s not the most serious crime out there and we’re just going to dismiss these cases, cut our losses and move on without them, said Kerry Armstrong.

The former 18 year veteran’s charges include, receiving bribes during suspected DUI traffic stops, assault under the color of authority and sexual battery. Arevalos has pled not guilty to 18 felony counts that stem back to September of 2009.

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.

15 accused DUI drivers off the hook after SDPD cop's arrest, KFMB 8, June 8 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 "Fifteen San Diego DUI Cases Dismissed by City Attorney’s Office" »

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 " »

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" »

A DUI arrest for a University of Las Vegas Basketball forward on charges of suspected drunken driving.

Chance Stanback, a 21 year-old forward who plays for UNLV was arrested on Friday on misdemeanor charges for allegedly driving in his 2010 Mercedes while intoxicated, having no proof of insurance and speeding. He was taken into custody and later released on his own recognizance.

According to Officer Jacinto Rivera, the 6 –foot-8 suspected drunk driver was arrested around 2:00 am in close proximity to the UNLV campus. Stanback is a senior and transfer student from UCLA. He is scheduled to appear in court on August 11. UNLV lost to Illinois in the first round of the NCAA tournament.

If you are arrested for San Diego DUI you may want to consider talking to an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer who can explain all of your legal options.

UNLV basketball player Chace Stanback arrested on DUI charge, Sporting News.com, May 16, 2010

UNLV Forward Stanback Arrested For DUI, 10News.com, May 18,2010

Web Related Resources:

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

Continue reading "DUI Arrest for UNLV Basketball Player Stanback" »

A San Diego DUI crash in Chula Vista that happened over the weekend allegedly involved a San Diego Police Officer.

The alleged Chula Vista DUI crash occurred about 11:30 p.m. on west Telegraph Canyon Road when off duty San Diego Police Officer William Johnson crashed his Lexus into a BMW injuring a passenger inside.

The 12 year police veteran was suspected of driving while intoxicated at the time of the alleged San Diego DUI crash. Johnson was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and was released on his own recognizance, according to Chula Vista PD Captain Gary Wedge.

According to Wedge, “If there are serious injuries, if the person is a repeat offender, in circumstances such as that, the person would go to county jail.” “Generally, they are released on their own recognizance, Wedge said. Johnson was placed on a paid administrative leave. Since February, there have been seven San Diego Police officers including Johnson put under investigation for DUI or other misconduct.

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 Officer Allegedly Involved In DUI Crash, 10News.com, May 9, 2010

Chief Addressed Cop Misconduct, NBC San Diego, May 10, 2011

Web Related Resouces:

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence
California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI

Continue reading "Chula Vista DUI Crash Involving San Diego Police Officer" »

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

Web Related Resources

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest
California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

Continue reading "Rick Springfield Arrested in Los Angeles for Driving Under the Influence" »

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 DUI checkpoint that was set up in Pacific Beach Nets 27 people under arrest for DUI related charges.

The Pacific Beach DUI checkpoint that was set up near Mission Bay High School on Grand Avenue had 725 vehicles pass through. According to Officer Mark Mc Cullough, one person was arrested on suspected felony narcotics possession, one person was arrested for allegedly being drunk in public and twenty-five drivers were taken into custody for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

If you are caught while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol in San Diego and have a blood alcohol level 0.08 percent or higher you will be charged with a DUI if apprehended. Operating a motor vehicle while drunk is against the law.

If you are arrested in San Diego and charged with felony drunken driving you may want to consider seeking legal advice from a San Diego DUI attorney who has experience handling the complex DUI 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.

27 Arrested During Pacific Beach Checkpoint,10News.com,April 17,2011

Web Related Resources:

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

Continue reading "Pacific Beach DUI Checkpoint Nets 27 Arrests " »

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

Web Related Resources:

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Police Officer Accused of DUI in Hit and Run Crash" »

A San Diego fatal DUI crash suspect that killed an 18 year old bicyclist pled not guilty in court Monday.

Hernan Lopez Gonzales who pleaded not guilty to charges of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated is being held on $1 million bail. The 24 year old alleged drunken driver left the scene of the fatal DUI accident and was arrested later that day when an officer found Gonzalez and his vehicle.

David Mendez was found in the 1300 block of Sleeping Indian Lane. He was airlifted to Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla. The Bonsall resident was pronounced dead the following day.

The alleged San Diego DUI driver had a blood alcohol level measuring .09 which was taken 5 hours following the fatal DUI crash, according to Deputy District Attorney Garret Wong. Gonzalez is being charged with vehicular manslaughter, two counts of DUI causing injury and hit and run causing death. If Gonzalez is convicted he can face 10 years in state prison.

If you are arrested for a San Diego DUI you may want to seek legal advice from a San Diego DUI lawyer who has experience in DUI cases.

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 Pleads Not Guilty In Crash That Killed Bicyclist, 10News.com, April 4, 2011

Web Related ResourcesCalifornia DUI: DUI procedures
California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego Fatal DUI Crash Suspect Pleads Not Guilty" »

In San Diego Ronald Troyer drove his car into a sidewalk and into a La Jolla bakery ultimately wounding three teenagers and two adults.

While Troyer was driving his 1984 Chrysler New Yorker, he was under the influence of marijuana and alcohol. On Tuesday David Uyar, Deputy District Attorney, said that the drunken driver had smoked marijuana right before the crash occurred. Not only is he facing charges for driving intoxicated, he is also facing charges of reckless driving, driving on a suspended license and a hit and run. The 66 year old San Diego drunk driver faces up to fifteen years in prison because of his two previous DUI convictions and will be sentenced on May 4.

Two victims who were struck by Troyer are Ian Brininstool, who broke his leg and Alani Aguerre. Aguerre suffered the most injuries because she was dragged under Troyer’s vehicle where her pelvis was crushed, broker her leg and broke both of her arms.

The third victim, fifteen year old Myles Polger explained that he hopes Troyer gets what he deserves. Polger stated that “We just want to make sure he doesn’t have the opportunity to get in a car again and hurt anybody else.” The young victim is now in physical therapy due to arm and leg injuries from the accident.

Man Under Influence Of Drugs Guilty In La Jolla Bakery Crash, San Diego 10 News, April 6, 2011

Web Related Resources:

California DUI: DUI procedures

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego Drunk Driver Who Crashed Into La Jolla Bakery Found Guilty" »

An Escondido DUI checkpoint was conducted on Saturday March 26 in an effort to keep drunken drivers off the road netted 21 citations.

The Escondido DUI checkpoint occurred near El Norte Parkway and Washington Avenue. While demonstrators tried to reroute drivers away from the DUI checkpoint, Escondido police issued 16 people citations for driving without a license. Two were cited for not having insurance, and there were three motorist cited for having a suspended license.

One man was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after he was involved in an accident. Another motorist who made a sudden turn after passing the demonstrators was taken into custody on suspicion of DUI after he was stopped by an officer for a vehicle code violation.

If you are arrested for San Diego DUI or driving under the influence of drugs of alcohol, you may want to seek legal council from an experienced San Diego DUI Lawyer who can guide you through the legal process.

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.

North County crime blotter, Sign on san Diego, April 4, 2011

Web Related Resources:

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

Continue reading "Escondido DUI Checkpoint Nets 21 Citations" »

San Diego drunk driver Anthony Guarino was sentenced to six years in prison on gross vehicular manslaughter charges.

Right before the horrific crash on August twentieth of last year, Guarino consumed eleven shots of whiskey before getting behind the wheel of his BMW where he crashed into Marc Durham’s vehicle. The impact killed Durham and injured six other people whose cars all collided. Guarino explained that he fell asleep driving which resulted in the crash. The San Diego drunk driver had a blood alcohol level of .15 percent a couple hours after the fatal DUI crash took place.

In court, Guarino apologized to the victim’s family by saying "To Mrs. Durham and her family: I'm sorry for what I've done and I ask for your forgiveness." Guarino’s attorney, Brad Patton, asked if the judge could give his client probation and four years in prison however the judge denied the San Diego DUI lawyer's request. Patton also argued that his client should be free from all charges except misdemeanor DUI because he was asleep when he slammed into Durham’s vehicle and that Guarino has no recollection of what happened that night.

Since Guarino had no prior criminal record and was in good standing with the community, San Diego Judge Einom sentenced the drunken driver to six years in prison. The Judge told Guarino that "You had so many chances to avoid doing what you did that night- The law will not tolerate drinking and driving and the resulting carnage."

Man Recieves 6 Years For Fatal Chain-Reaction DUI Crash, San Diego 10 News, March 11, 2011

Web Related Resources:

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

California DUI: DUI procedures

Continue reading "San Diego Drunk Driver Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Gross Vehicular Manslaughter" »

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

Web Related Resources:

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

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

Continue reading "San Diego Police Officer Pleads Not Guilty to Assaulting Women He Pulled Over on Suspicion of Driving Under the Influence" »

In Vista, Pamela Marabea’s Ford Explorer was struck by a truck at 82 miles per hour ultimately killing her. The driver of the truck, seventeen year old Jeanette was under the influence of pain killers, anti-depressants, marijuana and alcohol at the time of the horrific crash.

Jeanette’s alcohol intake was more than twice the legal limit at the time of the accident. When the San Diego teenage drunken driver was in the emergency room, there were several instances where she was pronounced dead; however she survived with permanent loss of peripheral vision, short time memory loss as well as no recollection of the deadly collision. Fifty-three year old Marabeas, the driver of the Explorer, died at the scene.

On Friday, the Vista Superior Courthouse had their 10th annual Youth in Court Day where the destroyed SUV was put on view to show for the 1,000 students attending the consequences of drinking and driving. Jeanette, the teenage drunken driver who prefers to be identified by her first name only, spoke at Youth in Court Day. Jeanette told students that she was remorseful of the decisions she made. She also explained that by the time she was seventeen years old, she was into drugs and an alcoholic.

Erin Limonchi, Marabeas daughter attended Youth in Court Day as well. Limonchi told students that “this isn’t an accident. Many of you will make a calculated decision to drink or do drugs and drive…To me this is murder.” At the time of the accident, Jeanette was weeks away before she was going to turn eighteen. She was sentenced to 480 days in Juvenile Hall.

North County Students Get Their Day in Court, Sign on San Diego, March 18, 2011

Web Related Resources:

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "San Diego Drunken Driver Speaks at Youth in Court Day" »

A fatal DUI crash that resulted in the death of a 9 year-old girl, by a mother who may have consumed twelve beers beforehand, according to court documents.

Karen Honeycutt who had four prior San Diego DUI convictions was arrested after driving drunk in a fatal DUI crash in January that killed her 9 year-old daughter. The suspected DUI driver had a blood alcohol level of .22 percent which is almost three times the legal limit. According to toxicology reports also found hints of marijuana in her blood. One beer was found in her vehicle and 11 more empty cans were found by authorities at her home.

The fatal Temecula DUI crash happened on January 26 on Vail Ranch Parkway when the 41 year old mother’s jeep flipped after she lost control hitting a light pole, carrying her daughter and two sons. According to more court documents, Myles, the suspected drunken driver’s 8 year old son said that his mother was drinking a beer and cursing while waiting to pick up another child.

The suspected drunken driver has been charged with second degree murder, gross vehicular manslaughter while driving under the influence of a drug and alcohol, driving with a blood alcohol level over .08 percent. Honeycutt’s license had been suspended after her 2010 San Diego DUI conviction, but after completing a DUI alcohol treatment program she was able to get her license back.

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.

Mother may have had up to a dozen beers before accident that killed daughter, Examiner.com, March 3, 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 "Woman Charged with Gross Vehicular Manslaughter Possibly had Twelve Beers before Fatal Crash Occurred" »

On Tuesday in Hollywood, Christina Aguilera was arrested for being under the influence of alcohol in public.

According to the authorities, the “Burlesque” actress will not be prosecuted even though she was “extremely intoxicated.” Steve Whitmore, a Sheriff’s spokesman explained that Aguilera “didn’t really understand where she was” and that she was “not belligerent in any way whatsoever.” The sound of “burning rubber” prompted police to pull over the songbird and her boyfriend which could be heard from a distance. The driver, Matthew Rutler, had a blood alcohol level 0.09 percent which showed up on the field sobriety test. The legal limit for California is a 0.08 percent.

Twenty-five year old Rutler was arrested for being past the legal limit of alcohol while driving and Aguilera was arrested for being drunk in public. Later on, Rutler was released on $5,000 bail and it is still unknown whether or not he has hired an attorney. According to police, the singer was too intoxicated to get herself home so she was held at the West Hollywood Sheriff’s station. Police issued her a breath test; however the results will be kept privately since she will not be brought to court. Unfortunately, she will have a misdemeanor on her record.

The singer, according to Whitmore, had to be fingerprinted and put into a cell until she was sober enough to pass a sobriety test. When Aguilera had sobered up just enough, she was released on $250 bail around 7:30 a.m. where she was driven home safely by someone who came to pick her up.

Christina Aguilera Arrested For Drunkenness,San Diego 10 News, March 1, 2011

Web-Related Sources:

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "Christina Aguilera Arrested For Being Drunk in Public" »

San Diego DUI arrests were up 18.5 percent over last year during the Super Bowl weekend.

There were 160 people taken into custody this year over the Super Bowl weekend for San Diego DUI or driving under the influence. San Diego DUI Checkpoints and saturation patrols were added. In 2010, during the same time there were 135 motorists arrested for San Diego DUI and one fatality. According to Sheriff’s officials, there were no fatalities this year.

The San Diego County Avoid the 14 DUI Task Force will be arranging particular patrols in over 20 communities around San Diego County on Sunday adding extra law enforcement. A shared task involving the National Football League, MADD, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Hero Campaign, and Techniques for Effective Alcohol Management Coalition to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving in a national public education campaign called “Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.”

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence it may be in your best interest to talk to a San Diego DUI attorney who can explain all of your legal options, one who has a winning track record in handling DUI charges in the San Diego Courts.

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.

160 Arrested in Super Bowl DUI Patrols, San Diego 6 the CW, February 7, 2011

Web Related Resouces:

California DUI: DUI procedures

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Arrests Net 160 Over Super Bowl Weekend" »

Erin Limonchi of San Diego is working her way to change teen DUI laws after her mother, Pamela Sue Marabeas, who was killed by an underage San Diego drunk driver in September of 2009.

Marabeas, an X-Ray technician was hit by a seventeen year old girl at Mission Gorge Road and Highway 125 where the San Diego resident was killed. It upsets Limonchi that the teenage drunk driver didn’t receive a harsh enough punishment for her mother’s lost life. According to Limonchi, "The time allotted to her was not significant enough that we feel was adequate enough for taking somebody's life," she explained.

It is Limonchi’s mission to change the DUI laws regarding teenage drunk drivers. She feels that if a drunken teenager that gets behind the wheel resulting in an injury or death to another driver, then that teen should be tried in adult court. Limonchi also states that "If you really injure or kill somebody, how is that going to weigh on you the rest of your life, how is that going to change your family members' lives and how is that going to change the lives of those who you inflicted the pain on?"

Limonchi is encouraging people not to drink and drive this Super Bowl weekend. She knows that her mother would support the change in underage DUI laws regarding injury or death. She explains that she has already been in contact with a legislator who is willing to write it.

Daughter Fights to Change Teen DUI Laws & Attitudes, CBS 8 San Diego, February 1, 2011

Web Related Resources

California DMV on driving drunk
California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

Continue reading "San Diego Resident Pushing for Change in Teen DUI Laws" »

San Diego DUI checkpoint will take place over the weekend in hopes of keeping San Diego drunken drivers off the roads.

The San Diego DUI checkpoint will begin on Friday from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. on January 28. The site where the DUI checkpoint will take place has not been divulged.

The DUI checkpoints are funded by a grant from the California Office of traffic Safety and given to the San Diego Police Department. In the state of California, drunken driving related deaths are at the lowest level in six decades.

If someone is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs they will be subject to a field sobriety test. If you do not pass a field sobriety test and are arrested you will be taken to jail. You will be looking at fines and many other expenses. It may be in your best interest to seek council from a San Diego DUI lawyer.

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 HOLD DUI CHECKPOINT THIS WEEKEND, East County Magazine, January 27, 2011

Web Related Resources

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Checkpoint to be Conducted Over Weekend" »

A fatal DUI crash in Temecula takes the life of a 9 year-old girl.

Karen Honeycutt was arrested and taken into custody after a drunken driving crash that took the life of her daughter. The Temecula DUI crash occurred on Wednesday when Honeycutt’s jeep hit a tree and light pole. Honeycutt’s daughter Chloe was launched from her mother’s car after hitting the tree.

According to authorities, the alleged drunk driver was driving at 100 mph. Honeycutt’s 8-year-old son and 17 –year-old step son were also injured in the fatal DUI crash. Honeycutt was driving while intoxicated at the time of the accident.

Court records show that Honeycutt had previously lost her license because of a drunken driving conviction. Honeycutt was sentenced to a year’s probation last year for driving on a suspended license and had a related licensing conviction in 2009. Honeycutt was arrested on driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol and on suspicion of second-degree murder. The suspected Temecula DUI driver’s injuries include a broken neck and she remains in a medical center jail ward.

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.

Mom Arrested After Daughter Killed In Crash, 10news.com, January 28, 2011

Mom who lost daughter in SoCal crash had DUI, sandiego6.com, January 28, 2011

Web Related Resources

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

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Drunken Driving Accident Causes 9-Year-Old Girl to Die " »

Suspected San Diego DUI driver Melanie Rebecca Flores faces murder charges for causing a head on collision while driving while intoxicated.

Flores, 47, is facing up to 15 years to life in state prison if convicted. The defendant allegedly caused a head on crash in April 2010 near Coronado on the Silver Strand which killed 95-year-old Stevens Benjamin Friedman when she was suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol.

A preliminary hearing was scheduled Tuesday for Flores. After the preliminary hearing, a judge will decide whether or not the prosecution has enough evidence to try the case. According to Deputy District Attorney Cally Bright, Flores has three previous DUIs from Illinois and is being held with bail set at 4 million dollars, since she was last arrested in June.

Bright said that Flores’s blood-alcohol level was measured at .32 percent which is four times the legal limit. Flores’s blood-alcohol level was measured forty-five minutes after the deadly crash. According to Coronado police, the defendant drove her car into two other vehicles. Friedman was in the front-seat passenger side of one of the other cars. The others who were victims of the San Diego fatal DUI crash were injured but survived.

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.

Hearing Today For Woman Accused Of Fatal DUI, 10News.com, January 18, 2011

Web Related Resources

California DUI: DUI procedures

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Hearing for Woman Accused of Fatal DUI" »

San Diego police and law enforcement were heightened over the New Year’s holiday weekend in an effort to reduce San Diego drunken drivers on the road.

In San Diego there were fifty five people arrested for driving under the influence, DUI, from Friday night to 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, according to the California Highway Patrol Officer Ray Scheidnes. Sobriety checkpoints were set up all throughout San Diego County.

According to the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office, there was one San Diego DUI fatality. A pedestrian was killed by a suspected drunken driver in La Mesa on Saturday, around 1:00 a.m. In the state of California, the California Highway patrol stated there were 12 DUI related fatalities and 873 motorists were taken into custody on suspected DUI.

A checkpoint set up in Escondido over the New Year’s weekend netted six DUI arrests and 16 automobiles were impounded because of motorists driving without a license or insurance. If you are charged with DUI in San Diego, an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer can help you through the legal process.

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.

REGION: Holiday weekend sees DUI arrests, fatality, North County Times, January 2, 2011

Web Related Recources:

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

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

Continue reading "55 San Diego DUI Arrests over the New Year’s Weekend" »

A San Diego DUI arrest in Coronado, for a man who was on probation for a prior DUI.

The 35 year-old alleged San Diego DUI driver was driving on a suspended license when he was arrested for DUI, driving under the influence of alcohol, violating probation. The DUI incident occurred on January 11, in the 800 block of 10th Street.

The man suspected of driving while intoxicated was taken into custody on charges of DUI, violating a court order, driving on a suspended license and obtaining a DUI while still on probation for a prior DUI.

If you are arrested in San Diego County for driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, you may find it in your best interest to obtain legal council from a San Diego DUI lawyer who has the knowledge and expertise to guide you through the legal process.

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.

Coronado Crime Watch, Coronado Patch, January 11, 2011

Web Related Resources:

California DUI: DUI procedures
California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "A San Diego DUI arrest in Coronado, for a man who has been on probation for a prior DUI." »

DUI Sentence for ex-Sacramento Kings Player is three years of informal probation.

Antoine Wright, 26, was charged with driving under the influence in Rocklin, Ca. just northeast of Sacramento on November 5. The basketball player’s DUI lawyer pled no contest to the misdemeanor DUI charge. Wright was also ordered to serve 15 days in Placer County jail which he is to report to on March 30 unless the judge awards him work furlough or home detention.

The former Kings player’s blood alcohol level was measured at 0.2, according to prosecuting attorney Matt Block, which is more than two times the legal limit. Wright who did not appear in court on the day of sentencing was sentenced to three years probation for the DUI, drunken driving charge.

If you are arrested and charged with DUI, you may want to seek legal advice and representation from an experienced DUI lawyer who can successfully guide you through DUI case.

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.

Ex-Kings player Antoine Wright gets probation for DUI, USA Today, January 12, 2011

Ex-Kings player Wright gets probation for DUI, KFMB News 8, January 11, 2011

Web Related Resources:

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "DUI Sentence is Probation for Former Sacramento Kings Player" »

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" »

A DUI arrest was made in Santa Monica for actress Jaime Pressly after being pulled over for a traffic violation, according to authorities.

The DUI arrest happened on Wednesday about 11:00 p.m. when the 33 year-old co-star of “My Name is Earl” was pulled over by police for a traffic violation. The alleged drunken drivers’ blood alcohol level was not disclosed, according to Lt. Darrell Lowe.

The actress who was allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol was taken into custody and booked on suspicion of DUI. After spending the night in jail, Pressly was released on $15,000 bail early Thursday morning.

If you have been arrested and charged with a San Diego DUI, it may be in your best interest to seek legal counsel from an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer.

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.

Pressly arrested, San Diego 6 The CW, January 6,2011

Jaime Pressly ARRESTED: DUI For 'My Name Is Earl' Star Huffington Post, January 6, 2011

Web Related Recoures

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest
California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

Continue reading "DUI Arrest for Actress Jaime Pressly" »

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

Web-Related Resources:
California DUI: DUI procedures
California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "Vince Neil of Motley Crue DUI Trial Date Pushed Back" »

San Diego DUI crash in La Mesa where one man died is being investigated by police.

A Mission Valley man died while walking to the trolley station when he was hit by a suspected drunk driver. The San Diego DUI crash occurred about 1:00 a.m. in La Mesa on Murray Drive. Dana Lohner was driving a Ford Mustang at the time of the accident.

According to Brian McPherson, the younger brother of Kelly McPherson, 54 who died in the suspected DUI crash, “He was doing the right thing by not driving. He was doing the right thing by taking the trolley. He knew he was going to have a few drinks, so he took care of that,” “There’s a lot of laughter. There’s a lot of crying. There’s still shock that he is gone,” said Brian.

Lohner who is suspected of driving under the influence is a fourth grade teacher at Freese Elementary School in the Skyline area. She was not booked on vehicular manslaughter charges. Police are still investigating the cause of the alleged San Diego DUI accident. Capt. Ed Aceves with the La Mesa Police Department said, “We did not book her for vehicular manslaughter because we are still investigating the collision.” Lohner was free on $100,000 bail. Her next court appearance is set for next Monday.

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.

Police Investigate Deadly La Mesa DUI Crash, 10news.com, January 3, 2011

Web Related Resources:

California DMV guidelines about DUI

California DUI: DUI procedures

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Crash in La Mesa Under Investigation" »

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" »

On Monday at 3 a.m., Joe Joseph, member of the Redskins’ defensive tackle was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Joseph Louis Joseph, 25, was being held in custody on Monday and could not be confirmed whether or not he played for the Washington Redskins according to the Sheriff’s Department investigator and public information officer, Vincent DiBenedetto. However, the photos of Joseph on NFL.com and the Redskins team website matched the ballplayers booking photo.

Currently, there are no other details presented on the status of Joseph’s DUI arrest. Tony Wyllie, the Redskins Senior Vice President said that “we’re gathering all the facts right now. And that’s all I can say.”

In Jacksonville on Sunday, the ballplayer played briefly on his team’s 20-27 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. On Friday, Joseph, who is 6-2 and three hundred and fifteen pounds, was added to his team’s active roster from the practice squad. Joseph, who used to play on the University of Miami team, was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent for the Tennessee Titans. He has also practiced with the New York Giants.

Redskins' Defensive Tackle Joe Joseph Arrested for DUI, The Washington Post, December 27, 2010

Web Related Resources

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

Continue reading "DUI Arrest for Joe Joseph of the Redskins" »

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

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 DUI Crash That Killed Rookie Pitcher Sentenced to 51 years" »

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

Web Related Sources

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

Continue reading "DUI's and Holidays Don't Mix" »

In San Diego Izaiah Wallis is making improvement after being injured in a crash due to drunk driving but he still has a long way to go to be fully recovered.

On Tuesday night Passion 4 K.I.D.S. hosted a fundraiser to raise money for Izaiah’s medical bills at the Paradise Point Resort. The medical bills are costing as much as $30,000 each day. Adrian Gonzalez, a former Padres star signed autographs for money which he donated to show his support. Overall, the fundraiser showed overwhelming support. Gonzalez said that “They’re going through tough times right now and they just need to know we’re here for them, we love them and we’re praying for them.”

On October 18 Izaiah was seriously injured in a drunken driving crash in Oceanside and has since been at Rady Children’s Hospital for treatment. So far the baby has gone through six surgeries. The morning of the accident, Izaiah’s grandfather took his grandson on a walk in his stroller when a 17 year old drunk driver crashed into them. The grandfather suffered from broken bones. The driver’s blood alcohol level was .21.

Izaiah, thankfully no longer in a coma, faces blindness, paralysis and brain damage due to the drunken driving crash. The drunk driver now has to serve 480 days in program for youthful offenders. The fundraiser’s organizers goal was to raise $25,000 to help with the hundreds of thousands of dollars that so far has cost Izaiah’s young, uninsured parents. Lucy Verde, the mother of Izaiah, quit her job to care for her son.

Fundraiser Held For Baby Injured In DUI Crash, San Diego 10 News, December 15, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV on driving drunk
California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

Continue reading "San Diego Fundraiser Held for Injured Baby" »

Mario Elie, assistant coach for the Sacramento Kings was arrested in Sacramento.

The California Highway Patrol used ten sentences to describe the situation of what happened and out of the ten sentences, three sentences described Elie’s professional career. Was this an arrest report or a dedication page? Elie was arrested on Thursday morning at 15th and Capitol. In one section of the arrest report, the CHP titled the section “Factual Circumstances Surrounding the Arrest” which they gave a sixty word synopsis about Elie’s career. The synopsis included Elie’s three NBA championships, the seven teams he played for listed individually as well as his job being assistant coach for the Kings.

Adrian Quintero of the California Highway Patrol defended that Elie’s detailed professional career is “releasable information and its public record” and that the public should be informed. Quintero stated that “He’s [Elie] a high profile individual in the community. So, we want people to be aware that no matter who you are –if you are driving impaired –you’re gonna get arrested.” Mark Pineda disagrees. He feels that if Elie was just a regular guy, the information in the report would not have been relevant to the arrest.

The California Highway Patrol argues that Elie is receiving special treatment just because of his status. Quintero explained that “He [Elie] was not “being treated any differently from any other individual.” John Lobertini of FOX40 shot back in disagreement stating that “You are treating him differently by listing who he is and what his career statistics are.” The argument between Quintero and Lobertini ended after Lobertini accused Quintero of treating Elie differently.

Did the CHP go too far with Kings Coach, FOX40 Sacramento, December 10, 2010

Web-Related Resources:
California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "Kings Coach Recieving Special Treatment for DUI?" »

San Diego suspected DUI arrest for ex- City Council candidate in the Mount Hope area of San Diego.

San Diego Attorney, Felipe Hueso, 51, was arrested on suspicion of DUI after failing a field sobriety test. Hueso was driving a Jeep Wrangler when he was pull over by San Diego police officers for a vehicle code violation in the 4000 block of Market Street just after 10:30 P.M., according to SDPD Detective Gary Hassen. The San Diego DUI suspect smelled of alcohol, according to officers. His blood alcohol level was measured at .15.

Hueso who ran an ineffective campaign was defeated last month in his run for the city’s District 8 seat which was previously held by his brother Ben. Ben Hueso on November 2, was elected to the 79th District State Assembly.

Hueso was allegedly driving while intoxicated, was taken into custody on suspected DUI. If you are arrested on a San Diego DUI charge, it may be in your best interest to seek legal advice from a San Diego DUI attorney.

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.

Attorney & Former City Council Candidate Felipe Hueso Arrested for DUI, San diego 6 the CW, December 7, 2010

Ex-Council Candidate Accused Of DUI, 10News.com, December 7, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "San Diego Drunk Driving Charge for Ex-San Diego Candidate for City Council" »

A San Diego suspected drunk driver, David Gutierrez, 22, tried to escape on foot after he collided with another vehicle injuring five passengers as well as himself while driving his minivan on Thursday. However, the driver was not successful in trying to flee the scene when he caught by police officers.

According to police, the crash occurred at 1:10 a.m. when the minivan was eastbound on El Cajon Boulevard where Gutierrez ran a red light and crashed into a vehicle that was driving northbound on Baltimore Drive resulting in the minivan overturning.

Police described that while three passengers waited at the scene, Gutierrez as well as two other passengers tried to flee. One of the three remaining passengers claimed that he was going to get his gun to the other driver of the vehicle that the minivan had crashed into. The driver escaped the scene due to fear but when officers came he returned to the scene.

Gutierrez and the two other passengers were found shortly at Spring Street and University Avenue. The three that tried to escape including Gutierrez were taken to a local hospital and the three remaining passengers at the scene were taken to a local hospital to be treated for their minor injuries. The driver of the other vehicle was not injured. After Gutierrez was treated for his injuries, officers arrested him on the charge of a hit and run and felony drunk driving. A gun claimed by one of the remaining passengers at the scene was not found.

Suspect in La Mesa Crash Tries to Flee Scene, CBS 8 San Diego, Dec 2, 2010

Web Related Resources:

California DUI:DUI procedures
California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego Suspected Drunk Driver Flees Rollover Crash" »

Monday in Los Angeles, Faith Evans, a Grammy-Award winning singer pleaded no contest for two misdemeanor DUI charges. This was the result of Evans being arrested in August in Marina Del Rey at a drunken driving checkpoint.

The thirty-seven year old had been stopped at Washington and Lincoln Boulevard checkpoint close to Marina Del Rey. Officers of the Los Angeles Police Department arrested the drunken entertainer on the twenty-first of August at 10:40 p.m. under the suspicion of driving drunk. The singer’s car was impounded and the following morning she was released. Whether or not she is being represented by an attorney is still in question.

According to Frank Mateljan of the Los Angeles City Attorney’s office, Mateljan explained that Edward Morton, a Los Angeles Superior Court Judge ordered that the singer complete a three-month alcohol program, pay three hundred dollars in fines including penalties, not drive if she had been drinking any amount of alcohol and lastly, serve three years probation. This arrest is not the first for the grammy award winning singer. Todd Russaw, a record company executive and Evans were arrested and charged with possessing cocaine and marijuana in a Atlanta Suburb traffic stop in 2004.

Evans won a Grammy in 1998 for the song “I’ll Be Missing You” due to the death of her husband Christopher Wallace, also known as Notorious B.I.G.

Faith Evans Pleads No Contest to Reckless Driving, November 30, 2010, North County Times

Singer Faith Evans Pleads No Contest to DUI, November 29, 2010, The Baltimore Sun

Web Related Resources:

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

California DUI:DUI procedures

Continue reading "Grammy Award Winner Faith Evans Pleads No Contest for DUI" »

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

Web Related Resources:

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

Continue reading "164 San Diego DUI Arrests During Thanksgiving Holiday" »

San Diego DUI arrests during the Thanksgiving holiday were about the same as 2009, according to the California Highway Patrol.

During the first 60 hours into the Thanksgiving holiday there were 59 people arrested for driving under the influence in San Diego. One fatality was reported on Interstate 5 near Basilone Road. In 2009, there were 58 people that were arrested for San Diego DUI and again only one fatality.

Throughout the state of California, drunken driving arrests were higher than in 2009. There were 975 people taken into custody for driving while intoxicated and 11 fatalities reported. At the same time last year, there were 904 DUI arrests made and 11 people died in alcohol related DUI crashes.

The California Highway Patrol will be out in full force and will boost patrols in San Diego County during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend keeping drunken drivers off the road.

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.

Holiday DUI numbers slightly up statewide, stagnant countywide, KFMB news 8, Novemeber 27,2010

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 DUI Arrests during Thanksgiving Holiday Comparable to Last Year" »

The suspected Chula Vista drunk driver was driving northbound on interstate 805 with seven passengers overcrowding his Honda Civic when the Civic collided with another vehicle that ultimately killed a teenager in the car.

The DUI accident involved thirteen people in two cars resulting in the Honda Civic bursting into flames. The California Highway Patrol’s final report on the accident is still in progress. In San Diego, Roman Martinez the driver is currently in jail on drunk driving and second degree murder charges as well as having a prior DUI conviction. Martinez has a court appearance on Thursday where he is scheduled to appear.

The teen killed was Eileen Dominique Miranda of Chula Vista. Marissa Tapia-Miranda, the mother of the victim is explains that this whole situation is a nightmare that she wants to end. “I don’t understand why these DUI drivers promise not to do it again, and then it happens again, and an innocent person is killed.” The San Diego DUI crash occurred along the freeway near East H Street around 5:15 pm on the 25th of September.

Martinez’ bail is set for 2.5 million however he will face immigration charges instead of bail. There will be a preliminary hearing to establish whether there is sufficient evidence to have a trial in early January.

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.

Mother wants justice for daughter killed in DUI crash, Sign On San Diego, November 25, 2010

Web-related Resources
California DMV: Pulled over for DUI
California DMV on driving drunk

Continue reading "Chula Vista DUI Results in Fatal Accident" »

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

Web Related Resources

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

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Teen Confesses to Running Over Toddler" »

San Diego DUI related crashes in the vicinity of the University of California San Diego have been reduced because of the California Highway Patrol operation which is aimed at 18-24 year-old drunk drivers.

San Diego drunken driving crashes have been reduced by 63 percent because of increased law enforcement and on -campus instruction since the campaign began on June 1, 2009. San Diego DUI fatalities were reduced by 40 percent. San Diego Area Commander of the CHP Captain Rich Stewart said in a statement, “Anytime a program results in lives saved it’s a success in my book.”

According to CHP Officer Art Athens, San Diego DUI injuries sustained while driving under the influence were diminished by 72 percent. With increased law enforcement by the California Highway Patrol on Interstate 5, 805 and highway 8, the San Diego Police Department along with UCSD Police there has been a reduction in San Diego DUI related incidents.

The CHP DUI campaign was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for a “College Driving under the Influence Corridor Safety Grant.”

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.

CHP campaign cuts DUI crashes around UCSD, Sign on san Diego, November 3, 2010

Web Related Resouces:California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence
California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Crashes Reduced Near UCSD" »

San Diego DUI violations ranks highest on a list of alcohol related convictions in the nation, by information and data collected by insurance.com.

San Diego DUI convictions ranks at the top of 20 cities in the nation for the largest number of alcohol rated DUI violations. According to the San Diego Police Department, there were approximately 4400 people arrested for San Diego DUI violations. One reason there are more San Diego DUI arrests is because there are more police implementing the law.

Bernard Gonzales, spokesman for the Chula Vista Police Department said, “I think law enforcement in San Diego County reflects what the community wants,” “Really it’s about enforcement and education. We want people to know, we are out there and hopefully it will lead people to changing their behavior,” said Gonzales.

In 2009 there were 20 San Diego DUI checkpoints, where field sobriety tests were conducted and 20 San Diego saturation patrols that were funded by grants, held by the San Diego Police Department. Their goal is to keep those driving while intoxicated off the roads. San Jose ranked 2nd on the list of alcohol related convictions while Los Angels ranked 7th.

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.

San Diego leads nation for DUI violations, study says, Fox 5 San Diego.com, September 27, 2010

Web Related Resources:
California DMV on driving drunk
California DMV on what happens when you’re arrested for DUI

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Leads the Nation in Alcohol Related Convictions" »

A San Diego DUI suspect who allegedly killed a Sheriff’s deputy pleaded guilty to vehicular manslaughter.

Jose Pedro Lopez Jasso, 23, was suspected of driving the wrong way on state Route 52 when the San Diego fatal DUI crash occurred on February 28, around 3:15 a.m. The sheriff’s patrol car had been in pursuit when it exploded into flames. Witness Maria Sanders saw the wrong-way driver approaching her and pulled over to let him pass.

Lopez was not aware that he was being followed by police and according to the suspects San Diego DUI defense lawyer, he felt he should not be held to answer on charges of gross vehicular manslaughter. The DUI suspect’s blood alcohol content was .11 which was measured two hours after the fatal crash.

Lopez who is facing up to 12 years in state prison pled guilty to felony gross manslaughter while intoxicated, driving under the influence causing injury, and having a blood alcohol level over the legal limit causing injury.

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.

Man admits driving wrong way while intoxicated, causing death of pursuing sheriff's deputy, KFMB Ndews 8, October 27, 2010

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

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Suspect Pleads Guilty to Vehicular Manslaughter" »

A DUI grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety has been awarded to the Escondido Police Department in an effort to reduce San Diego DUI related incidents.

The $268,000 grant was given to the Escondido Police Department so they would be able to staff special operations in an effort to reduce drunken drivers on the road through DUI checkpoints, increased patrols, and warrant searches.

DUI fatalities in California were down by 7.6 percent in 2009. The grant will also be used to educate citizens about driving under the influence and the consequences it may have. There were 950 fatalities in 2009 due to alcohol related DUI – related crashes.

According to Escondido Police Chief Jim Maher, “Our message is simple.” “No matter what you drive, a passenger car, pickup, sport utility vehicle or motorcycle, if we catch you driving impaired, we will arrest you. No exceptions. No excuses,” Police Chief Maher said in a statement.

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.

Escondido police get DUI grant, Sign on San Diego, October 26, 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 DUI Grant Awarded to Escondido Police Department" »

A San Diego DUI suspect from Carlsbad has a preliminary hearing set on Monday for allegedly trying to hit a police officer with her car.

Bonnie Jean Bass, 58, of Carlsbad, was taken into custody on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, DUI, and felony evading on July 12. The woman accused of DUI was found by a border patrol agent in her car near Carlsbad Boulevard and Ponto Drive in the center of the median, facing the wrong way. When police officers arrived at the scene after being called, the woman started her car and began to drive toward one of the police officers. He jumped out of the way to avoid being hit.

A police chase began that lasted four minutes and ended after the car of the woman who was suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol ran out of gas. When Bass would not surrender herself to the officers, she was forced out of the window of her vehicle, after the officers had to break it.

Bass was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, driving while intoxicated and felony evading. A preliminary hearing is scheduled on Monday.

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.

DUI Suspect Accused Of Trying To Run Into Cop, 10News.com, September 27,2010

Woman arrested after short high speed chase, Sign on san Diego, July 12, 2010

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

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Suspect from Carlsbad Has Preliminary Hearing Scheduled " »

http://www.sandiegolawcenter.com/index.htmlSan Diego County DUI arrests were slightly lower than last year over the Labor Day holiday weekend, according to the San Diego County California Highway Patrol.

There were 88 arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence in San Diego County between Friday evening and late Monday night. Two less San Diego DUI incidents than last year at the same time, according to the California Highway patrol. There were no traffic related deaths reported during this holiday weekend span, as was the same last year.

Statewide drunk driving arrests were higher than in 2009. There were 1521 motorist that were charged with driving while intoxicated, compared to 1417 DUI arrest made last year. In California, 21 people died in DUI related crashes compared to last year where there were 12 DUI traffic related fatalities.

If you are charged with a San Diego DUI it may be in your best interest to seek legal advice from an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer.

Web Related Resources
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.

88 drivers jailed on suspicion of DUI over holiday weekend, Del Mar Times, September 7, 2010

California DMV guidelines about DUI
California DUI: DUI procedures

Continue reading "Fewer San Diego DUI Arrests Made Over Labor Day Weekend" »

$67 million in grants were given to California, statewide by the Office of Traffic Safety for traffic safety programs. In San Diego, $3.4 million in traffic safety grants were awarded to San Diego County, UC San Diego and five other cities, by the California Office of Traffic Safety. The grants are to be used for programs mostly to prevent San Diego DUI’s.

The OTS funds are to be used to give San Diego the resources it needs to fight San Diego drunk driving, and provide safety awareness programs.

“We have come a long way in California over the last four years,” Christopher Murphy said, Director of the OTS. “Every category of traffic fatality and injury has seen remarkable improvements. These grants will keep that momentum going,” he said.

The traffic safety grants were granted to the following San Diego local recipients:

San Diego County, $400,000, for DUI enforcement and awareness program
San Diego County, $200,000, for a Keep’Em Safe program
San Diego County, $575,000, for probation supervision of repeat DUI offenders
San Diego, $438,000, for DUI enforcement and awareness program
La Mesa, $123,000, for DUI enforcement and awareness program
Chula Vista $486,539, for repeat DUI offender prosecution
Chula Vista, $273,215, for DUI enforcement and awareness program
Oceanside, $261,597, for DUI enforcement and awareness program
Escondido, $250,000, for DUI enforcement and awareness program
UCSD, $425,719, for law enforcement and health professional training for age related driving disorder

County Receives Traffic Safety Grants, 10News.com, July 8, 2010

Continue reading "San Diego County Awarded Traffic Safety Grants by the California Office of Traffic Safety" »

A San Diego DUI crash in Leucadia sends three suspected drunk drivers to jail after they all crashed into each other on Interstate 5, according to the California Highway Patrol.

In a statement prepared by CHP Lt. Paul Golonski, “This is an example of how dangerous things are out there.” “Here we have three impaired drivers colliding with each other,” he said.

Carlsbad resident Todd C. Winter, 31, deserted his 2005 Ford Focus after rear-ending a large truck, then spun out, hitting the center divider as it went back into traffic leaving his passenger in the vehicle on Interstate 5.The vehicle was then hit by another alleged DUI driver, driving a 2002 Honda Accord, A few moments later the Honda was struck by a 1970 Chevrolet Corvette whose driver was also suspected of driving while intoxicated. He said he didn’t notice the crash and rammed into the Honda Accord.

All three men were arrested on suspicion of driving while under the influence of alcohol in the San Diego DUI crash. One of the DUI drivers and the passenger were taken to Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla where they were being treated for serious injuries. The two other alleged San Diego DUI drivers were booked into jail and were released on bail.

If you are arrested in San Diego for DUI, it may be in your best interest to seek advice from an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer.

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.

3 Suspected Of DUI Arrested After Leucadia Crash, 10News.com, July 3, 2010

Web Related Resources:

California DMV on driving drunk

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Crash in Leucadia Sends 3 to Jail on Suspected Drunk Driving" »

San Diego drunk drivers to face San Diego police, Sheriff’s Department and the California Highway Patrol over the July 4 holiday weekend during a DUI crackdown that will begin on Friday night.

The San Diego law enforcement will be out in full force over the July 4 three day holiday weekend to crackdown on San Diego DUI drivers. Saturation patrols and two San Diego DUI checkpoints will be set up to enforce drinking and driving laws. Oceanside, Vista, Escondido, and Chula Vista also have DUI checkpoints and patrols intended for the holiday weekend.

“Driving while drunk isn’t worth the tremendous risk,” said SDPD Chief Bill Lansdowne. “No matter what your age, if you’ve had too much holiday spirit, you’d better find a safe and sober ride home or your chances of arrest are high,” he said.

In 2009, there were 30 deaths that were DUI related in the state of California and 363 people were injured in DUI related accidents throughout the state. In San Diego County 88 DUI arrests were made in 2009.

Web Related Recources:
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.

Local Authorities Promise July 4 DUI Crackdown, 10news.com, July 2, 2010

California DUI: DUI procedures
California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Crackdown Over July 4 Holiday Weekend" »

After artist Thomas Kinkade was arrested for allegedly driving while intoxicated he pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor DUI charge.

William Thomas Kinkade, 52, who is well-known for his “paintings of light”, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol after being pulled over during a routine traffic stop and failing a field sobriety test that was administered by California Highway Patrol Officer Robert Lehman. The alleged DUI incident occurred on June 11, outside Carmel, Ca.

Kinkaid was booked into jail and released on bail the following day, according to CHP Officer Lehman. In the Monterey Superior Court his DUI defense attorney pleaded him not guilty and asked the judge to postpone a pretrial hearing until July 29

Kinkade, the alleged DUI driver who was not present in court had no comment on the advice of his DUI defense lawyer. If you are arrested in the San Diego area for DUI it may be in your best interest to obtain legal advice from a San Diego DUI lawyer.

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.

Placerville native Thomas Kinkade pleads not guilty to DUI charge, June 22, 2010

Calif artist Thomas Kinkade, known for paintings of tranquil scenes, arrested for alleged DUI, June 14, 2010

Web Releated 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 "Not Guilty Plea for Alleged DUI Arrest for Artist Thomas Kinkaid in Northern California" »

A San Diego North County bus driver for the North County Transit District was arrested on suspicion of DUI while driving a commercial vehicle, according to a sheriff’s sergeant.

David Joseph Costello, was arrested on suspicion of DUI, after failing field sobriety tests that were administered around 4:25 p.m. at 479 Encinitas Blvd. The 40 year-old alleged DUI bus driver was carrying eight passengers on Route 309 which travels on El Camino Real between Encinitas and Oceanside at the time of his DUI arrest.

According to Alex Wiggins, a spokesman for NCTD, “Our focus is 100 percent safety. We want to make sure not just our passengers, but also our employees are safe. Once our investigation is complete we will take whatever appropriate,” said Wiggins. Executive Director for NCTD, Matt Tucker said, “We take this allegation seriously, and will be very aggressive in investigating and taking whatever action is necessary to prevent a reoccurrence of this event.”

After a tip was given to dispatchers by a passenger who had got off the bus, stating that the driver seemed drunk and was making many unscheduled stops. Costello was arrested on suspicion of driving a commercial vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. He is being detained at the Vista Detention Facility.

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.

North County Bus Driver Arrested On Suspicion Of DUI, 10News.com, June 1, 2010

Bus Driver Accused of DUI, NBC San Diego, June 2, 2010

Web Related Resources:

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

California DUI: DUI procedures

Continue reading "San Diego North County Bus Driver in Custody on Suspected DUI" »

A Chula Vista DUI checkpoint that was set up over Cinco de Mayo to target DUI and other vehicle violations nets 16 arrests, five were for DUI.

The Chula Vista DUI operation began at 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday and ran until 2:00 p.m. on Thursday in the 700 block of Telegraph Road, with 2350 cars going through the checkpoint, according to Chula Vista police.

Five motorists were arrested for DUI, driving under the influence and taken into custody, 15 motorists had their cars impounded, and there were 25 citations given for other violations, according to Chula Vista police.

Sheriff’s deputies went undercover in another DUI operation on Cinco de Mayo in the coastal communities of Encinitas, Solana Beach and Del Mar where they arrested 11 people for drunk in public. One person was cited for marijuana possession. If you are charged with a DUI in San Diego County it may be in your best interest to obtain legal representation from an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer.

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.

16 Arrested In Cinco de Mayo Crackdowns, 10News.com, May 6, 2010

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

California DUI: DUI procedures

Continue reading "Five San Diego DUI Arrests Made in Chula Vista on Cinco de Mayo" »

A San Diego DUI suspect is behind bars after leading San Diego police on a pursuit that began in Encinitas and ended in Orange County, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The alleged drunk driver whose name has not yet been identified was suspected of hitting a stopped car just after 6:00 p.m. Tuesday on Interstate 5 near Manchester Avenue in Encinitas. The man suspected of San Diego DUI continued northbound on Interstate 5 in a maroon Lincoln.

The Border Patrol and California Highway Patrol officers tried to bring the alleged DUI driver a halt near the San Onofre checkpoint but failed. CHP finally put out a spike strip just north of Junipero Sera Road in Orange County which flattened all four of the DUI suspects car.

The man suspected of driving under the influence was taken into custody into a San Diego County jail where he was booked on suspicion of DUI and evading police. If you are charged with driving under the influence in San Diego County, it may be in your best interest to consult an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer to discuss 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.

Suspected Drunk Driver Leads Police On Pursuit, 10News.com, April 5, 2010

ENCINITAS: Suspected drunken driver arrested after pursuit, North County Times, April 5, 2010

Web Related Resources:

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

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Suspect Arrested in Orange County after Leading Police on Chase" »

A Southern California DUI arrest was made after police pulled over ex-NFL running back Corey Dillon for driving under the influence near Malibu.

Police stopped 35 year-old Dillon, after he was driving slowly behind the officer’s patrol car on Mulholland Drive to prove the paper license plates on his 2010 Chevy Camaro, just before 4:00 a.m. according to Lt. Richard Erickson.

“Dillon displayed multiple symptoms of being under the influence, and he admitted to having been drinking earlier in the evening,” said Lt. Erickson. The suspected DUI driver was arrested but later released.

The former Cincinnati Bengals and New England Patriots player who won a Super Bowl ring in his first season and retired in 2007 was booked into the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department on suspicion of DUI but released on a citation to appear on June 21 in a Malibu court.

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.

Ex-NFL Star Arrested For Alleged Drunken Driving, 10News.com, April 21, 2010

Ex-NFL star arrested for alleged drunken driving, Sign on San Diego, April 21, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

California DUI: DUI proceedures

Continue reading "DUI Arrest for Former NFL Running Back Corey Dillon" »

A San Diego suspected drunk driver pleaded not guilty to charges of DUI and gross vehicular manslaughter stemming from a January incident when the SUV he was driving crashed into a Carl’s Jr. and killing a patron.

Seventy-five year-old Richard Alfred Daus, who had a blood alcohol level almost three times the legal limit when he drove his SUV out of control and crashed into a Carl’s Jr. killing patron Randy Eugene Smith, 66, who frequented the restaurant regularly. The impact threw Smith across the restaurant about 40 feet where he died instantly.

Witness Craig Burger testified in the El Cajon fatal DUI accident that he heard noises and saw an SUV speeding through the parking lot as he was sitting in his truck. “I thought, this guy’s going to kill somebody,” said Burger. As the vehicle sped 361 feet across the parking lot, Daus did not brake, said El Cajon police Detective Timothy Roberts. According to the alleged DUI driver’s San Diego DUI attorney, Daus was not aware that he had even been in a crash.

Daus, who in 1988 was convicted for DUI in Alaska and in 1952 he, had a reckless homicide conviction in Cook County, could face 15 years to life in prison for the San Diego fatal DUI crash. A readiness hearing is scheduled for May 18 and a June 1 trial has been set.

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 Pleads Not Guilty In DUI Crash That Killed Diner, 10News.com, April 13, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest
California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

Continue reading "San Diego Alleged Drunk Driver Pleads Not Guilty in Fatal DUI Crash" »

A San Diego DUI suspect was taken into custody after crashing into a Santee fire hydrant and fleeing the scene, according to a San Diego Sheriff’s Sergeant.

After crashing his vehicle into a fire hydrant around 12:30 a.m. at Woodside and Magnolia in Santee, the suspected San Diego DUI driver, 25 year-old Austin Pinto fled the scene while water was shooting up into the air, said Sergeant Brent Strahm.

Pinto who was suspected of driving under the influence had sped away with his headlights off. He was pulled over a short time later by a deputy who noticed that there was damage to Pinto’s vehicle and there were marks on the car from yellow paint and that it was wet.

The suspected drunk driver was arrested and booked on suspicion of driving while intoxicated, and failing to stop at the scene of an accident causing damage to property. If you have been arrested for DUI in San Diego, it may be in your best interest to obtain legal council from a San Diego DUI lawyer.

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.

Suspected DUI Driver Arrested After Crash Into Hydrant, 10News.com, April 14, 2010

DUI Arrest in Hydrant Hit & Run Crash, San Diego 6 The CW, April 14, 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 DUI Suspect Arrested after Fleeing Scene of Crash into Santee Fire Hydrant" »

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 woman that caused a San Diego DUI crash that killed a mother of three after her truck went off the road in El Cajon was convicted of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated on Wednesday.

Deborah Felix, 53, fled from the San Diego drunk driving scene after fatally striking Cyndi Dean Kohlmeyer, 35, while she was on foot, crashing into some mailboxes, hitting another truck, then smashing her truck into a garage in the DUI incident that took place on November 21, 2009.

Felix had a blood alcohol level that was more than three times the legal limit at .27 percent. Her sentencing is on May 11 in El Cajon by Judge Lantz Lewis where she faces up to 15 years in state prison.

The DUI driver who was convicted of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and who also was convicted of misdemeanor hit and run had pled guilty before the trial to a misdemeanor DUI from a previous incident.

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 Driver Guilty In Crash That Killed Mother Of 3, 10News.com, April 7, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Woman Convicted In Fatal Crash" »

A San Diego County woman who was suspected of driving under the influence was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving after crashing her SUV into a Chula Vista golf course pond.

Beth Anne Olvera, 62, drove straight through the intersection at Otay Lakes Road and Bonita Road right into a duck pond at the Chula Vista Municipal Golf Course around 4:30 a.m. on Tuesday. Her Nissan Xterra was submerged in the pond after knocking down a palm tree and crashing through a fence.

The woman suspected of DUI left the scene of the San Diego DUI crash with her male passenger and was found by Chula Vista police a little while later near a McDonalds about a block away. Police impounded her vehicle about an hour later.

After failing a field sobriety test, the 62 year old DUI driver was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated and will also be charged for leaving the scene of an accident.

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 Charge For Woman, 62, Who Drove SUV Into Golf Course Pond, 10news.com, March 30, 2010

Woman arrested after driving into duck pond, Sign on San Diego, March 30, 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 DUI Charge for Woman Who Drove SUV into Chula Vista Golf Course Pond" »

A San Diego DUI charge for “The Real World San Francisco” star David Rainey, after losing control of his car on Friday night on a San Diego Highway, according to San Diego CHP Officer Brian Pennings.

Rainey “Puck” was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence “Due to his level of intoxication, he was unable to negotiate a curve in the roadway,” said Officer Pennings. Rainey’s 8 year old son was seriously injured in the accident that left the vehicle upside down in a roll over accident on San Diego’s Highway 79.

The two were headed for a fishing trip when Rainey swerved to avoid hitting a deer in his path on Route 79. The suspected DUI driver and his son were taken to a local hospital where they were treated for broken bones and internal bruising. They are reported to be in serious condition.

The former reality celebrity will be charged with driving without a license and child endangerment.

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.

Real World’s’ Puck arrested on DUI charge, MSNBC, March 24, 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 DUI Charge for “Real World’s” Reality Star Puck" »

San Diego DUI enforcement was out in full force over the St. Patrick’s Day holiday in Encinitas, Del Mar and Solana Beach, netting 13 arrests involving alcohol related incidents, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.

The San Diego DUI alcohol enforcement operation took place on Wednesday from 9:00 p.m. and lasted until 3:30 a.m. on Thursday. Officers were looking fo drunken drivers, drunk in public and other San Diego DUI alcohol related offenses. The Department of Alcohol Beverage Control issued a grant to fund the alcohol enforcement operation.

Thirteen people were arrested for suspected public intoxication. There were two people given citations for smoking in a public place. People caught driving on a suspended license or without a license will have their vehicles confiscated by officers and will be impounded for 30 days at the expense of the driver.

St. Patrick’s Day along with other major “party” holidays such as New Year’s Eve, Superbowl Sunday, Memorial Weekend and the 4th of July where alcohol is predominantly the guest of honor, alcohol related crimes tend to rise.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

St Patrick’s Day is an infamous day for San Diego DUI arrests. 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.

ENCINITAS: St. Patrick's Day DUI enforcement scheduled , North County Times, March 16, 2010

ENCINITAS: More than a dozen arrested for alleged public intoxication, North County Times, March 19, 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 DUI Enforcement in Encinitas Nets 13 Arrests over St. Patrick’s Day" »

A 19 year-old boy was taken into custody for suspected DUI after running a red light and crashing into another vehicle on Sunday, according to Chula Vista police.

The suspected DUI driver was traveling on Palomar Street in Chula Vista when he ran a red light at Olympic Parkway and ran into another car driven by a 51 year-old woman about 4:45 a.m. After her car rolled over, police had to free her by breaking her car window.

The hurt woman was transported to a local hospital where she sustained moderate injuries from the DUI collision, according to Lt. Fritz Reber.

The suspected teenage drunk driver who had no proof of insurance was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI causing injury.

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.

Teen Arrested Following DUI Crash, 10News.com, March 14, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Crash Involving Teen Arrested" »

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" »

In a San Diego DUI checkpoint, ten drunken driving arrests were made for people suspected of driving while intoxicated on Sunday, according to San Diego police.

The San Diego DUI checkpoint was set up on Saturday night at 10:00 p.m. in the 1500 block of First Avenue until Sunday at 3:00 a.m. “We stopped a total of 1,005 vehicles, evaluated 27 people, made 10 arrests for suspicion of driving under the influence, cited two other people for other violations and impounded 11 cars,” said San Diego police officer Mark McCullough.

Through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a grant funded the San Diego DUI checkpoint from the California Office of Traffic Safety.

If you find yourself caught in a San Diego DUI checkpoint and arrested for driving under the influence it might be in your best interest to obtain legal council from an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer.

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.

Ten arrested at DUI checkpoint, San Diego News Network, February 14, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV: guide to DUI arrest

California DMV: Pulled over for DUI

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Checkpoint Nets Ten Suspected Drunk Driving Arrests" »

A San Diego County mom was sentenced to probation instead of Jail for letting underage teens drink alcohol and get drunk at her home in Fallbrook.

Deborah Gibney, 47, had pleaded guilty to breaking a county ordinance that calls for a host to verify the ages of guests who consume alcohol and also control the access of alcohol to minors in Vista Superior Court.

Approximately twelve underage teenagers that were intoxicated got sick after drinking an excess of alcohol and vomiting after the Fallbrook mom allowed them to consume alcohol at a party she had at her home to celebrate the end of the school for her kids and their friends on June 10. Gibney was arrested after she brought one of the severely intoxicated youngsters to Fallbrook Hospital for treatment. No one was arrested for DUI or driving under the influence.

There were at least 100 kids at the party and Gibney was the only adult in attendance. San Diego Sheriff’s Lt. Phil Brust said, “We are not saying she provided the alcohol, but alcohol was brought to the party, and she was there while kids were drinking it.” Gibney was sentenced to 3 years probation and a $300 fine.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Hosting a party and allowing underage teens to consume alcohol and become intoxicated is against the law. 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.

No Jail for Woman Who Let Teens Drink Themselves Sick at Her House, San Diego 6 The CW, February 17, 2010

No jail for Fallbrook mom who allowed teens alcohol, KFMB News 8, February 17,2010

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 County Mom Avoids Jail Time" »

A San Diego County Caltrans driver who was suspected of driving while intoxicated was arrested for suspected San Diego DUI after his tractor slid off the back of his truck crashing into a Julian home.

Christopher Trachta, 49, was suspected of drunkhttp://www.sandiegolawcenter.com/lawyer-attorney-1239594.html driving when he continued to drive on after his tractor slammed into an apartment owned by Paul Thomas who is also the owner of Julian Hard Cider. He crashed into a pickup truck then swerve into oncoming cars before coming to a halt near Winola Farms marketplace.

The San Diego DUI crash happened about 1:00 p.m. on Friday. “The employee has been placed on administrative leave pending a review of the police investigation. The department makes safety of motorists and its employees a top priority and feels very strongly about the dangers of drinking and driving and will act swiftly if the evidence3 proves that the driver was intoxicated. The Department is upset that the end result has caused a hardship for the homeowner, and we are taking this very seriously,” said in a statement released by Caltrans.

The Caltrans DUI driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

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.

Caltrans Driver Crashes, Arrested For DUI, 10News.com, February 14, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV on California laws regarding driving while under the influence

Continue reading "San Diego County Caltrans Driver Arrested After Crashing Into a Julian Home" »

A San Diego man who was suspected of DUI and who pleaded guilty to vehicular manslaughter last April was sentenced to prison on Thursday for causing a fatal head-on collision.

Silverio Romero, of Vista was suspected of driving under the influence while leading police on a high speed chase at speeds over 100 mph when he crashed his 2001 Ford Explorer in a head-on collision that took the life of Douglas Tarry of Moreno Valley in Riverside County. Tarry, 27 was pronounced dead a short time after being airlifted to Palomar Medical Center in Escondido.

The DUI driver who lost his leg in the DUI accident was driving south on Interstate 15 without a license at the time of the San Diego fatal DUI crash. Enough evidence was presented to Judge Aaron Katz for Romero to stand trial for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, murder, felony DUI with injury, felony evading causing great bodily injury and driving without a license.

Romero was sentenced to almost 18 years in prison for the fatal San Diego DUI crash.

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.

Suspect in deadly DUI crash sentenced, KFMB News 8, February 12, 2010

Trial for DUI Driver Who Fled Police into Fatal Crash, San Diego 6 The CW, July 6, 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 "San Diego Man Sentenced in Fatal DUI Crash" »

A San Diego preliminary hearing that took place today for a woman who allegedly struck and killed a pedestrian walking down a street in Poway in a DUI related fatality is set to go to trial..

Poway resident and single mom Kristen Ann Bedard, 36, was walking down Community Road and Aubrey Street on her way to her job at Target on November 23 when she was struck and killed by 45 year-old Beck Marie Anderson who was allegedly driving under the influence of depressants around 7:00a.m. in the morning.

Anderson said she had taken about three Valium pills and took a 200 milligram dose of Methadone before the fatal Poway DUI accident occured. According to a witness she was trying to light a cigarette and use the radio which distracted her.

The DUI driver has had two other DUI convictions, one in 1998 and another in 1999, both in Minnesota, according to Deputy District Attorney Ted Minahan. Anderson, if convicted for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated will be facing 15 years to life in prison. Her arraignment is scheduled for March 2 in San Diego Superior Court where a trial date will be set.

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.

Woman To Stand Trial for Poway DUI Fatality, San Diego 6 The CW, February 10, 2010

Today: Hearing In Alleged DUI Death Of Mom, San Diego10news.com, February 10, 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 Woman Accused of DUI Fatality in Poway Will Stand Trial" »

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" »

San Diego DUI Checkpoints that were set up to catch motorists suspected of DUI and those who were driving without a license or on an expired license netted 13 drivers for allegedly driving under the influence.

The DUI checkpoint ran in Coronado from Saturday night into Sunday morning. Police officers along with the Sheriff’s Department that participated in the DUI checkpoint were from Coronado, San Diego, National City, and Chula Vista.

The Escondido DUI checkpoint ran from Friday at 6:00p.m. to 1:00 a.m. on Saturday. There were 2132 cars that came through the DUI checkpoint took place at East El Norte Parkway and Ash Street, according to Police Lt. Christopher Winn.

Officers arrested six motorists for suspicion of driving under the influence. A parolee was arrested for allegedly driving a stolen vehicle, while one motorist was arrested for false documents and another arrested on suspicion of being drunk in public. 42 people who were driving without a license or uninsured had their cars impounded.

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 checkpoints nab 13 suspects, San Diego News Network, January 31, 2010

Web Related Resources

DUI guidelines about DUI

California DMV on California Laws regarding driving under the influence

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Checkpoints Net 13 Arrests" »

A 17 year old involved in a San Diego DUI fatality that took the life of a Santee Woman pleaded not guilty to charges of gross vehicular manslaughter on Monday.

In Juvenile Court on Monday the girl whose name has not been identified was ordered to house arrest by Judge Dwayne K. Moring.

The alleged San Diego drunk driver was driving on State Route 125 on September 20 around 6:30am when she broadsided the victims Ford Explorer while exiting at Mission Gorge Road. Pamela Marabeas was stopped waiting to make a left turn when the fatal DUI incident occurred. The 53 year-old died at the scene.

Just before the DUI crash, the 17 year old girl was suspected of slamming into the back of a Chevrolet Cavalier making the vehicle veer off the road and running into a fence and utility boxes.

The alleged drunk driving teen who is being tried in Juvenile Court is charged with gross vehicular manslaughter, misdemeanor driving without a license, auto theft, hit and run causing injury and hit and run causing property damage if convicted she could face up to 11 years and six months.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Besides the fact that underage drinking is against the law. 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.

Teen Accused In Fatal Crash Pleads Not Guilty, 10news.com, February 1, 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 DUI Fatality Suspect Pleads Not Guilty" »

A suspected San Diego drunk driver crashes into a parked car and while trying to flee the scene he hits three pedestrians when he puts his car in reverse, according to the San Diego Police Department.

Three pedestrians that were standing outside The Silver Fox Lounge in Pacific Beach at 1833 Garnet Avenue were struck by a man suspected of driving under the influence about 2:00 a.m. on Friday. The San Diego DUI driver who had just smashed into a parked car had put his car in reverse while trying to escape the scene.

The three victims were taken to local hospitals. Two victims were taken to Scripps La Jolla and one to San Diego’s Sharp Memorial Hospital. One person was treated for a broken leg; the two other victims were treated for minor injuries. The suspect was driving a Ford Explorer when he fled the scene.

Witnesses were able to lead the San Diego police to the DUI suspect’s house in Clairemont where he was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

If you are suspected of driving under the influence it is in your best interest to obtain an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer to represent you. 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.

3 Pedestrians Struck as Drunk Driving Suspect Tries to Flee Crash, San Diego 6 The CW, January 29, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DMV on drunk driving

California DMV if you are pulled over for a DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Drunken Driving Suspect Hits 3 People Then Tries To Flee " »

A North San Diego based Marine from Camp Pendleton has been sentenced to 15 years to life in prison in a fatal DUI crash that took the life of a Newport Beach doctor and seriously injuring his wife in 2008.

Lance Cpl. Elijah Ferguson was driving under the influence of alcohol and speeding when he smashed into the back of an Aston Martin that was stopped at a red light at Jamboree Road and MacArthur Blvd. killing Dr. Michael Sein and seriously injuring his wife Grace. The DUI driver was driving about 75 mph when the fatal accident occurred on February 22, 2008.

Ferguson said “I’m sorry for what I did and for what I did not do,” meaning that he had planned to sleep off his drunkenness at Camp Pendleton before getting into his car and driving home. The intoxicated driver's blood-alcohol level was two times the legal limit.

Ferguson’s criminal defense attorney was hoping for probation, wanting his client to receive treatment at a San Diego facility for post-traumatic stress disorder. Ferguson who has no prior convictions was convicted on Dec 9 to second-degree murder and DUI charges. He was sentenced Friday to 15 years to life in prison.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

If you or someone you know is arrested for DUI in San Diego it is in your best interest to contact an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer to represent you with your drunken driving case. 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.

Lance Cpl. Elijah Leigh Ferguson Faces 15 Years In Prison For DUI Manslaughter, 10news.com, January 22, 2010

Former Marine sentenced for killing doctor, The Orange County Register, January 22, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DUI guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Marine Sentenced in Orange County Fatal DUI Crash" »

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" »

In San Diego, a man suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol pleaded not guilty to DUI charges and gross vehicular manslaughter after he smashed his SUV into a car that was parked along the shoulder of a San Diego freeway killing a pregnant woman and critically injuring two others.

Joseph Anthony Venegas, who entered a not guilty plea in court, has no San Diego DUI priors is being held on $300,000 bail. The 40 year old is being charged with one count of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, as well as two counts of DUI causing injury. Venegas has not been charged in the death of the unborn child.

The 21 year old victim, Elaina Luquis-Ortiz, who was 6 months pregnant died at the scene of the crash that occurred on New Year’s Day. The two other victims were taken to San Diego’s Scripps Mercy Hospital where they were treated for severe injuries.

Venegas, whose blood alcohol level was more than three times the legal limit could be facing 16 years and eight months if convicted of the fatal San Diego DUI crash.

Man Pleads Not Guilty In Crash That Killed Pregnant Woman, 10News.com, January 13, 2010

Man Charged In DUI Crash That Killed Pregnant Woman, 10News.com, January 6, 2010
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.

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 Involved in Fatal DUI Crash Pleads Not Guilty" »

Former San Diego anchorwoman Allison Ross was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence after taking a field sobriety test, according to San Diego police.

Ross, 55, who worked as an anchorwoman from 1978 to 1989 at KFMB-TV, appeared to be driving while intoxicated on the wrong side of the road when a San Diego police officer saw her heading toward him just before 4:00 a.m. on Sunday in the 7600 block of Fay Avenue. The officer had to move out of the way to avoid being hit.

The suspected DUI driver was pulled over on Kline Street by the officer who then administered a field sobriety test. Ross was arrested on misdemeanor DUI and taken to Santee’s Las Colinas Jail for women where bail was set at $2500.

Ross who also worked in radio is facing charges for misdemeanor DUI and is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday.

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.

Former News Anchor Suspected Of Drunken Driving, 10News.com, January 11,2010

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 Former TV Anchorwoman Arrested for Suspected DUI" »

San Diego DUI arrests were up this holiday season compared to the same time last year, according to a 2009 Winter Holiday DUI Mobilization preliminary report.

This year there were 887 San Diego DUI arrests made while during the same time in 2008 there were only 496 arrests made for DUI around the San Diego County. Five San Diego DUI traffic fatalities were were reported compared to eight DUI related deaths last year.

The California Highway Patrol, with 13 additional law enforcement agencies around the county provided statistics that formed the 2009 Winter Holiday DUI Mobilization preliminary report.

Drinking and driving arrests over the New Year’s holiday weekend, which began on Thursday and ended at midnight Sunday, were up compared to last year as well. There were 246 DUI arrests in 2009 compared to 115 in 2008. San Diego DUI checkpoints that were set up and additional law enforcement around the county were about the same as last year.

If you are caught in a San Diego DUI checkpoint, your arrest comes from professionals doing the job they are trained to do. Their goal is to keep drivers who drink to stay off the roads. In California, it is unlawful for any person under the influence of alcohol or drugs to drive.

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.

CHP: DUI Arrests Higher Than Last Year, 10News.com, January 4, 2010

REGION: Holidays see jump in DUI arrests, North County Times, January 4, 2010

Web Related Resources

California DUI guidelines about DUI

California DMV guidelines about driving under the influence

Continue reading "San Diego Drunk Driving Arrests up This Holiday Season" »

A teenager who pleaded guilty to gross vehicular manslaughter is sentenced today to probation and 547 days at a camp for juveniles.

The boy who is 17 has been in custody since the fatal San Diego DUI crash that happened on October 4 about 1:45 in the morning on a Rancho Santa Fe winding road, which took the life of fellow classmate from Torrey Pines High School Alex Capozza and seriously injuring another classmate Jaime Arnold.

There were two other passengers involved in the DUI crash but they fortunately escaped severe injury. According to a report made by the California Highway Patrol, a combination of alcohol and speed played a large factor in the San Diego fatal DUI accident.

The teen who was driving under the influence, registered a .10 percent blood alcohol content which was taken about 60 minutes after the fatal DUI crash, according to Deputy District Attorney Aimee Mcleod. San Diego DUI attorney, Robert Grimes had argued for his client to be put on house arrest. The teen was ordered to serve a minimum of 283 days at Camp Barrett by Judge "Woody Clarke.

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.

Torrey Pines Student In DUI Crash To Be Sentenced, 10news.com, December 10, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV on California Laws regarding driving while under the influence

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Sentencing for Teen Accused in DUI Fatality in Rancho Santa Fe " »

There were fewer San Diego DUI arrests over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend this year compared to 2008, according to the California Highway Patrol.

From Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. through Sunday at 6:00 a.m., there were ninety-four San Diego DUI arrests made compared to last year where there were 108 drunk driving arrests made over the same time, according to California Highway Patrol Officer Jesse Udovich.

San Diego DUI Checkpoints were set up around the county by law enforcement agencies in an attempt to reduce the number of drunken drivers on the road. A Chula Vista patrol was set up and there were five people taken into custody for DUI. California Highway Patrol officers made 1314 driving under the influence arrests statewide this year compared to 2008 where there were 1397 people arrested for DUI.

In San Diego there was one fatality this year. Fatalities rose statewide compared to 2008. There were 30 fatal accidents during the holiday weekend in 2009 versus 24 fatalities last year.

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.

DUI arrests, fatalities down in San Diego; more fatalities statewide, KFMB News 8, November 29,2009

Web Related Resources:
California DUI guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Arrests Lower This Holiday Weekend" »

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

Web Related Resources
California DUI guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "DUI Charges For University of Florida Defensive Lineman" »

A San Diego DUI fatality of a woman who was struck and killed by a suspected drunk driver while she was walking down the street to sing karaoke was identified.

Cydil Deann Kohlmeyer, the 35 year-old mother of two daughters, was always known to have a smile on her face, according to her friends. “Dee Dee was like a spring of lovely personality. She was always energetic. She always had a smile. Always glad to see you,” said friend Jae Forsythe.

The San Diego DUI crash happened on Saturday about 9:20 p.m. in the 1200 block of Pepper Drive in El Cajon when Kohlmeyer was fatally struck and killed by a Dodge pick-up truck driven by a woman suspected of driving while intoxicated. Kohlmeyer was walking on her way to meet up with some friends at the Coo Coo Club to sing karaoke, according the San Diego Medical Examiner’s Office and the California Highway Patrol.

Deborah Felix, 51, the suspected DUI driver tried to run away from the scene after striking and killing Kohlmeyer with her vehicle, running over several mailboxes, slamming into the back of a parked pick-up and finally came to a halt when she crashed into the side of a garage. Several neighbors caught her and held her until police arrived. According to CHP Officer Brian Pennings, “They saw Ms. Felix in the seat of her car and saw her start to run from the scene.” “They caught up to her and detained her,” said Officer Pennings.

Felix was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI and will face charges for gross vehicular manslaughter.

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.

Woman Killed By Drunk Driver In El Cajon Identified, 10News.com, November 22, 2009

Pickup Runs Off the Street Hits, Kills Woman; Both ID'd, San Diego 6 The CW, November 22, 2009

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Fatality in El Cajon ID’d" »

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

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Senator John Kerry’s Daughter Alexandra Arrested for DUI" »

A San Diego DUI arrest warrant sweep in East County targeting drunk drivers who have been charged with driving under the influence and have not followed up on their court orders or appeared in court.

San Diego police are looking for about 800 people who have been charged with DUI. So far about 65 people have been arrested. “We’re helping along the system by making them accountable,” said Brian Pennings, CHP spokesperson.

A grant targeting San Diego East County DUI drivers along State Route 76 is what made the sweep possible. “State Route 67 was chosen because of the number, the high number, of incidences of DUI related injury and fatal collisions that we’ve had on that corridor,” said California Highway Patrol captain Teresa Sumprer.

You will see 1400 hours of added law enforcement along San Diego's State Route 67 from now until March of 2010 because of the grant that was made.

DUI Warrant Sweep Takes Dozens off the Street, San Diego 6 The CW, November 19, 2009

Web Related Resources
Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Many lives have been lost on San Diego's State Route 67 because of drinking and driving.
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.

DUI Warrant Sweep Takes Dozens off the Street, San Diego 6 The CW, November 19, 2009

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

California DMV on California Laws regarding driving while under the influence

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Warrant Sweep in East County Nets 65 Arrests" »

A fatal Vista DUI crash claims the life of a 17 year-old teenage boy after a suspected drunk driver loses control of his vehicle, veers off the road and rolls over after his car crashed through a bus stop shelter on Sunday, said the California Highway Patrol.

The drunken driving incident happened on East Vista Way near Mason Road early Sunday morning about 2:00a.m. In this DUI crash, again the teenager was not wearing his seatbelt and was somewhat ejected from a Ford Mustang, according to CHP Officer Eric Newbury.

The San Diego Medical Examiner’s Office said that Gerardo Chacon died at the scene. The suspected DUI driver and Oceanside resident Reyes Miranda, 20, who was driving without a license was taken to Escondido’s Palomar Medical Center where he sustained modest injuries to his back.

Miranda who was suspected of driving under the influence was arrested on charges of suspicion of felony DUI and gross vehicular manslaughter. This is a very serious charge and it is extremely important that you hire the right San Diego DUI lawyer to represent you.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

With so many young adults not wearing seatbelts and losing their lives in the DUI crashes that have happened lately it is possible that these deaths could have been avoided. 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.

Vista Teenager Killed In DUI Crash Identified, 10News.com, November 9,2009

VISTA: Teen killed in suspected DUI crash, North County Times, November 8,2009

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 "Vista DUI Crash Leaves 17 Year-Old Dead" »

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

Web Related Resources
California DMV: DUI procedures if you are pulled over

Continue reading "NASCAR Driver AJ Allmendinger Arrested On Drunk Driving Charges" »

A man from Poway was taken into custody and could be facing 12 years in prison after being convicted for a San Diego fatal DUI crash that took the life of a 28 year-old and injured her mother and aunt in 2007.

John Michael Sedej, 47, was driving under the influence of alcohol in his Acura SUV at about 1:20 a.m. on July 13, 2007 when he ran a red light at La Jolla Village Drive and Genesee Avenue near University Town Center and crashed into a 2000 Ford Expedition. Nancy Galeana-Ramirez was killed; her mother and aunt were injured.

Sedej was convicted of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and DUI causing injury. The intoxicated driver had a blood alcohol level of .15, almost twice the legal limit.

Sedej had two prior trials that ended with the juries deadlocked. He could be facing up to 12 years in prison when he is sentenced by Judge Melinda Lasater on December 2.

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.

Poway Man Convicted For Fatal DUI Crash, 10News.com, October 29,2009

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "In San Diego Fatal Drunk Driving Crash Poway Man Convicted" »

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
Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

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

A man was arrested in Sabre Springs on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol after losing control of his car and killing a woman in her mid 60’s, according to San Diego police.

Carl William David, 35, a transient from Ramona was driving in the 12600 block of Sabre Springs Parkway just before 9:30am when he lost control of his car and drove onto the sidewalk and struck a pedestrian who was on a morning walk. Sandra Kennedy was pronounced dead at the scene. Kennedy had just retired from the San Diego Unified School District.

According to prosecutors, the man suspected to be driving under the influence admitted to using Methamphetamines for 3 days prior to the Sabre Springs fatal accident. He was said to be high on a meth binge.

The DUI driver who faces up to 10 years if convicted is being held on $250,000 bail for felony gross vehicular manslaughter, drunk driving causing injury, and driving on a suspended license. David was not convicted in another DUI arrest he had in 2003.

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.

Driver Pleads Not Guilty In Crash That Killed Woman, 10News.com, October 16, 2009

Troubled Driver Accused of Killing Sabre Springs Woman, San Diego 6 The CW

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 "Suspected DUI Driver Killed Pedestrian in Sabre Springs" »

A 16 year old boy was struck on his bicycle by an Ocean Beach woman who fled the scene in a hit and run near Sunset Cliffs, was arrested on suspicion of DUI.

According to San Diego Police, the 24 year-old woman whose name has not been released, hit the boy while he was riding his bicycle in the bike lane around 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The suspected drunk driver fled the scene but a witness followed her to her home.

The witness was former San Diego Councilman Michael Zucchet. He called the San Diego police while he pursued her to her Ocean Beach home on Bacon Street. When the police arrived the woman was asleep.

It was not known what kind of injuries the boy sustained. The intoxicated woman was taken into custody on suspicion of DUI and hit and run.

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.

Cops: driver who hit cyclist and fled was drunk, Fox 5 San Diego, October 14,2009

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Ocean Beach Women Suspected of DUI and Hit and Run of Cyclist" »

A motorcyclist who had just finished a cross county trip from Massachusetts was killed in a Carlsbad DUI crash by an alleged drunk driver.

Wayne Francis, 42, who had just finished a motorcycle trip that began in Cape Cod, was killed while stopped at a red light on Island Way in Carlsbad, by a suspected DUI driver, according to police Lt. Don Rawson.

41 year-old Keith Roles, of Poway was suspected of driving under the influence when he crashed into the motorcyclist at 1:25 a.m. on Saturday. Francis died of numerous blunt force injuries, said the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office.

The alleged DUI driver was transported to Scripps Hospital in Encinitas for slight injuries. He was then taken into custody and booked at the Vista Detention Center on suspicion of DUI and vehicular manslaughter.

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.

Motorcyclist Killed After Cross-Country Ride, 10News.com, October 12, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about driving under the influence

Continue reading "Man Killed on Motorcycle in Carlsbad By Drunk Driver " »

In a Ventura courtroom “Pulp Fiction” screenwriter is sentenced to one year in jail and five years probation for a fatal drunk driving accident in that occurred 2008.

Roger Avary, who received an Oscar for writing “Pulp Fiction” with Quentin Tarentino, pleaded guilty to gross vehicular manslaughter and DUI in August after causing a fatal crash while driving while intoxicated in 2008 that took the life of a passenger in the vehicle.

The DUI screenwriter was exceeding speeds of 100 miles per hour when he crashed his Mercedes Benz into a telephone pole in Ojai. His wife Gretchen, was ejected from the car suffering serious injuries. Andreas Zini, 34, another passenger in the vehicle was killed in the fatal DUI crash. He was on his honeymoon with his wife visiting the Avary’s from Italy.

Avary who also co-wrote the screenplay for the movie “Beowulf” was sentenced to one year in jail and received 5 years probation for the January 13, 2008 fatal DUI crash.

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.

'Pulp Fiction' Writer Sentenced In Fatal DUI Crash, 10News.com, September 30, 2009

Screenwriter Roger Avary gets a year in jail for deadly crash, Los Angeles Times, October 1, 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 "Roger Avary “Pulp Fiction” Screenwriter Sentenced To One Year in Jail For Fatal DUI Crash" »

In Rancho Santa Fe, five teenagers who had just left a party were in a fatal DUI crash that killed a senior from Torrey Pines High School.

According to the San Diego County Medical Examiner, the suspected drunk driver lost control of his 2008 Mazda 3 after speeding around a windy curve in the 5000 block of La Granada, near The Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club around 1:45 a.m. on Sunday. The driver was arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated.

Alexander Michael Capozza, a 17 year-old from San Diego’s Carmel Valley who was a well liked student at Torrey Pines High School died at the scene of the drunken driving accident. He was a passenger in the rear seat of the vehicle and was not wearing his seat belt at the time of the DUI crash, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Another male passenger, 17 from San Diego, who was taken to the hospital with head injuries, was not wearing a seatbelt. One boy from Carlsbad and another boy from Del Mar, both 17, sustained minor injuries. The driver of the fatal crash who is also 17 and from San Diego remains in Juvenile Hall. He was arrested on gross vehicular manslaughter and charges for driving under the influence.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

In California, it is unlawful for any person under the influence of alcohol or drugs to drive.

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.

Rancho Santa Fe DUI crash victim identified, KFMB News 8, October 5, 2009

Identity Released: Torrey Pines Senior Killed in Rollover Crash, San Diego 6 The CW, October 5, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about driving under the influence

Continue reading "San Diego Student From Torrey Pines High School Killed in Fatal DUI Crash in Rancho Santa Fe " »

A “DUI Saturation Patrol” that took place in Imperial Beach on Saturday night in an effort to keep drunken drivers off the road, nets 10 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Together law enforcement agencies throughout the county were on patrol for drivers of vehicles who were driving while intoxicated or were driving without a license. 10 DUI drivers were taken into custody. There were 18 vehicles that were towed from unlicensed drivers. One minor who was in possession of alcohol was cited.

Vehicles will be towed and placed on a 30 day hold at the driver’s expense if you are caught for driving on a suspended license, without a license or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The DUI operation that was funded by the California Office of Traffic Safety was part of a year long DUI Prosecution and Awareness Program. This year 147 arrests were made for DUI, 262 vehicles were impounded and authorities handed out 332 citations.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

Your arrest from a DUI patrol comes from professionals doing the job they are trained to do. Their goal is to keep drivers who drink to stay off the roads. In California, it is unlawful for any person under the influence of alcohol or drugs to drive.

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.

Agencies conducting DUI operation net 10 arrests, Sign on San Diego, September 28,2009

California DMV: DUI procedures if you are pulled over

California DMV guidelines about driving under the influence

Continue reading "Imperial Beach “DUI Saturation Patrol” Nets 10 Arrests" »

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

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

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

In a Vista court professional surfer, Milton Willis was sentenced to four years in state prison by Judge Daniel Goldstein for the 2008 fatal Del Mar DUI crash that killed passenger Bradley Dillahunty.

On June 18, 53 year-old Willis pleaded not guilty to gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated for the June 6 DUI fatal accident that took the life of 24 year-old Laguna Niguel resident Dillahunty. Willis was also seriously injured in the DUI crash.

Willis was driving Dillahunty’s Toyota Avalon when he lost control and hit a palm tree traveling 65 mph in a 25 mph zone around 1:40 in the morning on Coast Boulevard. According to Sheriff’s officials, there was a strong odor of alcohol and thought that drinking was a “major” cause in the Del Mar drunk driving crash.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

The maximum sentence for the above case could have been 10 years in state prison. 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, BAC, you will be charged with DUI or driving while intoxicated if arrested. You may face a fine and jail time if convicted.

Pro Surfer Sentenced for Deadly DUI Crash, San Diego 6 The CW, September 23, 2009

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Willis Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for The Fatal Del Mar Drunk Driving Crash" »

In San Diego a suspected drunken driver hits a man pushing his stalled vehicle off Interstate 805 early Tuesday morning seriously injuring his leg.

The San Diego motorist, 32 year old Gerardo Perez was pushing his 2000 Toyota Corolla off the freeway after it stalled on Interstate 805 near State Route 163 about 2:15 in the morning when he and his vehicle were hit by a suspected DUI driver in a 1988 Honda Accord, according to California Highway Patrol Officer Brad Baehr.

When Perez was struck by the Honda Accord, he sustained severe injuries to his leg and was transported to Sharp Memorial Hospital.

Charlene June Festa, 39, of El Cajon appeared to be intoxicated at the time of the San Diego DUI crash. The suspected DUI driver was taken to a local hospital where she was treated for injuries. Festa remains in Santee’s La Colinas women’s jail. She was booked on suspected felony DUI.

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.

Man Pushing Stalled Vehicle Hit By Suspected DUI Driver, 10News.com, September 15, 2009

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "An El Cajon Suspected DUI Driver Hits Man Pushing Stalled Car " »

In Solana Beach, a checkpoint that was set up Friday into Saturday that was funded by the State Office of Traffic Safety, nets two driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, according to a sheriff’s sergeant.

There were 736 vehicles that entered the checkpoint that ran from Friday at 8:00 p.m. into Saturday at 1:00 a.m. Only half were stopped by sheriff’s deputies on North Highway 101 at Solana Vista Drive in Solana Beach, said Sgt. Randy Webb.

Of the vehicles that were stopped at the Solana Beach checkpoint, 2 arrests were made for DUI, and five other motorists had their vehicles impounded. Two people were driving on a suspended license and the three others were cited for driving without a license. One person was issued a citation for not driving with his license and having his vehicle registration expired.

The Solana Beach DUI checkpoint was funded by the state Office of Traffic Safety with a federal highway safety grant.

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.

SOLANA BEACH: Checkpoint nets two DUI arrests, North County Times, September 12,2009
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 "Two DUI Arrests Made at a Solana Beach Checkpoint" »

In San Diego there were 82 drunken driving arrests made over the Labor Day weekend, according to the California Highway Patrol.

San Diego DUI arrests were down from last year. In 2008 there were 110 arrests for driving under the influence. In the state of California there were a total of 1262 people arrested for driving while intoxicated compared to 1416 last year.

One person was killed Sunday morning in the Delzura area of San Diego. Paul Pinder, 37, of Spring Valley died after losing control of motorcycle and hitting the metal guard rail on State Route 94, according to the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office. Two people died in crashes last year.

In 2008, 10 people were fatally injured on California Highways. The San Diego DUI arrests were made between Friday at 6:00 p.m. through Monday at 6:00 a.m.

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.

CHP reports one death, 82 DUI arrests in San Diego County, KFMB News 8, September 7, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

California DMV on California Laws regarding driving while under the influence

Continue reading "82 DUI Arrests Made in San Diego Over Labor Day Holiday Weekend" »

In Los Angeles Actress Lori Petty who appeared in “Point Break” pleaded no contest through her criminal defense attorney to a DUI charge, is sentenced to five years probation.

The 45 year-old actress who also appeared in the movies “Tank Girl” and “A League of Their Own,” was arrested by police on May 30 in Venice Beach after hitting a skateboarder with her vehicle.

In a written statement, the actress who is accused of drunk driving said “I sincerely apologize for driving after drinking alcohol.” She vowed she would never drink and drive again. “I assure you, this first misdemeanor DUI will be my last,” she said.

Petty has already completed counseling in alcohol abuse which is part of her sentencing, according to City Attorney spokesman Frank Mateljan.

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.

Lori Petty Gets Probation In DUI Case, 10News.com, September 4, 2009

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "“Point Break” Actress Lori Petty Pleads No Contest in DUI Case" »

San Diego police will be scouring area beaches over the Labor Day weekend for people drinking or under the influence of alcohol or drugs and enforcing parking laws.

Officers from around the San Diego County including motorcycle officers, traffic controllers, retired senior volunteers, parking enforcement officers, beach teams, will all be out enforcing DUI, drinking on the beach, drunk in public, seatbelt laws, and parking regulations.

It is estimated that around 750,000 beachgoers are expected to turn out to San Diego beaches this Labor Day holiday weekend.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

During a holiday weekend people want to have a good time, but, it is a person’s responsibility to obey the laws about drinking on the beach. If you have 0.08 percent or more by weight, of alcohol in your blood, you will be charged with a DUI if apprehended.

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 may face a fine as well as jail time if you are convicted.

Booze Ban Patrols Expand on Labor Day Weekend, San Diego 6 The CW, September 1,2009

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

Continue reading "San Diego Police Will Be Patrolling Beaches For DUI Over Labor Day Weekend" »

During a DUI sting operation at the Vista Court put on by the Escondido police department and the San Diego County DUI Probation Team, four felony DUI arrests were made.

The Vista DUI sting was conducted on Monday at the Vista Courthouse to make sure that people who are on probation were not violating their probation. One of the four felony DUI probationers was arrested for being under the influence of alcohol during her court appearance, according to an Escondido police sergeant.

Officer’s arrested three people who drove away from their court appearance while their license was suspended. Officer’s seized three cars and gave out three misdemeanor traffic citations, according to the department’s traffic division Sergeant Dana Ray.

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.

VISTA: Court DUI sting nets four arrests, North County Times, August 31, 2009

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Four Arrests Made During a DUI Sting at the Vista Courthouse " »

A Chula Vista DUI checkpoint nets a total of 33 citations that were issued, and a drunken driving arrest.

The Chula Vista checkpoint took effect from 6:00 p.m. on Sunday to 2:00 a.m. on Monday in the 1100 block of Eastlake Parkway, said Chula Vista police.

According to the Chula Vista police, twenty five motorists had their cars impounded for driving without a valid license, three people were arrested on charges of suspected possession of a controlled substance, and one person was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

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.

Web Related Resources:
California DMV guidlines about DUI

25 Vehicles Impounded At Chula Vista Checkpoint, 10News.com, August 31, 2009

Continue reading "Chula Vista Checkpoint Nets 33 Citations" »

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 " »

A San Diego man suspected of DUI, crashes into an oak tree after losing control of his vehicle killing his passenger in Lakeside.

The alleged San Diego DUI driver, 37 year old Nico Faulk was driving a Volvo 240 DL westbound on El Monte Road in Lakeside around 1:00am when his vehicle started to glide off the road.

The man who was suspected of driving under the influence lost control of his vehicle and slammed into an oak tree, according to California Highway Patrol public affairs officer Brian Pennings.

Patrick Elerding, 34, a passenger of Faulk, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. Elerding was from Santee and lived with his parents according to officials with the Medical Examiner’s Office.

Faulk was taken to Sharp memorial Hospital after complaining of back pain. “Upon being released from the hospital, Mr. Faulk will be booked into San Diego County jail on Felony DUI and manslaughter charges, said Officer Pennings.

Santee man ID'd as victim in suspected DUI, Sign on San Diego, August 18, 2009

One Person Dies in Lakeside Crash; Driver & Victim ID'd., San Diego 6 The CW, August 18,2009

Continue reading "A Suspected Drunk Driver Crashes in Lakeside Killing Passenger" »

In San Marcos a suspected DUI driver and passenger who were in a police chase lost control of their car when it veered off Highway 78 crashing into a tree leaving a man injured and another dead.

Both men were ejected from their vehicle. An Escondido man, Guillermo Ceja, 23, died at Palomar Medical Center about 11:30 p.m. The driver of the vehicle was Gumersindo Gutierrez, 19, who sustained injuries was suspected of driving under the influence.

The stolen car the suspects were driving was thought to be involved in several vehicle break-ins in the Costco parking lot in San Marcos. When a sheriff’s deputy tried to pull over the vehicle the suspects sped off on Highway 78 before losing control.

Gutierrez was later taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence causing death, vehicular manslaughter, vehicular burglary, possession of stolen property, felony evading and conspiracy, according to officials.

SAN MARCOS: One dead, one injured following pursuit , North County Times, August 7,2009

Continue reading "San Marcos DUI Pursuit Leaves One Man Injured and Another Man Dead" »

Escondido DUI patrol nets 11 arrests from Friday night into Saturday, according to an Escondido police sergeant.

Escondido police, the San Diego police, the Sheriff’s Department and the UCSD Police Department joined together for the weekend DUI operation from 7:00pm on Friday to 2:00 a.m. on Saturday that was funded by a federal grant through the state Office of Traffic Safety.

There were 22 field sobriety tests issued, seven people were arrested for suspected drunk driving and 21 cars were impounded from persons driving without or on a suspended license.

ESCONDIDO: Three agencies assist in DUI patrol,North County Times, August 8,2009

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.

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Escondido Weekend DUI Patrol Nets 11 Arrests" »

In the United States more women are drunk driving then ever before, and with kids in the car.

Women may be drinking more because of pressures stemming from both work and home. Men still have more DUI cases than women, but women are catching up. They seem to be more careless when getting behind the wheel of a car.

According to Chris Cochran of the California Office of Traffic Safety, “Younger women feel more empowered, more equal to men, and have beginning to exhibit the same uninhibited behaviors as men.”

In 2007, nationwide, women arrested for DUI was 28.8 percent higher than in 1998. The National Highway Safety Administration reported that in 2007 there were 250 kids killed in DUI related crashes, “We realized for the last two to three years, the pattern of more female drivers, particularly mothers with kids in their cars, getting arrested for drunk driving,” said Tom Meier

“Our society has taught us that women have an extra burden to be the perfect mothers and perfect wives and perfect daughters and perfect everything,” said Dr Petros Levounis, director of the Addiction Institute of New York at St Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital Center, “They tend to go to great lengths to keep everything intact from an external viewpoint while internally, they are in ruins.”

With the current economic problems on families, and men losing their incomes, women are feeling the burden.

Women driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are going to be targeted when the Transportation Department’s annual crackdown happens this month.

Experts: Women Drink More, DUIs Rise, 10news.com, August 7,2009

Continue reading "Women Driving Under The Influence is on the Rise" »

Wednesday morning in Fallbrook a woman who was driving under the influence crashed her vehicle into a building was arrested for DUI.

The woman whose name has not been released was suspected of drunk driving when she drove her car into a structure at 329 N. Mission Road around 5:00 a.m. Wednesday morning, said a North County Fire Protection District dispatcher.

The drunk driver sustained only minor injuries in the San Diego North County DUI crash. Luckily no one else was injured. She was arrested for allegedly driving under the influence.

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.

Drunk Driving Suspect Drives into Building, San Diego 6 The CW, August 5, 2009

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "In Fallbrook A Woman Driving Under The Influence Crashes into Building" »

Along State Route 76 in Oceanside, the California Highway Patrol plans to reduce the number of drunk drivers by implementing more DUI patrols by a grant from the State Office of Highway Safety.

Over the last 3 years there have been 13 deaths and 303 people were hurt because of crashes by individuals driving under the influence or DUI along the 38.3 mile area of SR 76.

The state Office of Highway Safety has given a $266,000 grant to the Oceanside office of the California Highway Patrol to increase the DUI patrols and sobriety checkpoints along SR 76 in hopes of decreasing the number of Oceanside DUI related accidents and fatalities.

“The grant will pay for aggressive DUI enforcement, public education and community outreach to reduce DUI-involved collisions,” according to CHP Captain Deb Schroder. “This is a crime that leads to a lot of deaths and serious injuries every year.”

CHP to Increase DUI Patrols on State Route 76, San Diego 6 The CW, August 4,2009

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego

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

Web Related Resouces
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "On Oceanside’s SR 76 Corridor CHP Plans to Step Up DUI Patrols" »

An early morning Oceanside DUI crash that closed all lanes of the freeway leaves a 9 year-old girl dead, the DUI driver is arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and drunken driving charges, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The multivehicle accident happened around 1:00am on north Interstate 5 when the alleged drunk driver was traveling in his Lexus SUV about 50 mph in the fast lane when he swerved to pass a slow moving Dodge Caliber but ended up hitting the rear of the Dodge before losing control of his vehicle, said Officer Steven Zelasco of the CHP.

The man who was suspected of driving under the influence then hit a Honda SRV and crashed into a semi-truck before coming to a stop. A nine year-old girl who was a passenger in the Lexus SUV was pronounced dead after she was taken to Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego by helicopter.

Michael Wright, 23, of Commerce was arrested on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter and DUI.

OCEANSIDE: Child dies in multivehicle crash on I-5, North County Times, August 3,2009

Continue reading "Oceanside DUI Crash Ends in Fatality" »

In Hollywood, Florida four police officers were placed on leave after they were caught on camera scheming to cover up an incident involving one of the officers and a drunk driver.

Alexandra Torrensvilas, 23, of Hollywood, Florida who was later accused of driving under the influence was rear-ended by a police officer on February 16. According to her defense attorney Lawrence Meltzer, “This is the worst case of police misconduct I have ever seen.”

After officer Joel Francisco rammed into the back end of Torrensvilas vehicle, it was recorded on camera from the dashboard of his police car and also an audiotape of Sgt. Dewey Pressley is heard supposedly trying to recreate what actually happened.

“Well I don’t lie and make things up ever, because it’s wrong, but If I need to bend it a little to protect a cop, I’m gonna,” said Pressley.

“I will write the narrative out for you. I will tell you exactly how to word it so it can get him off the hook. You see the angle of her car? You see the way it’s like this? As far as I’m concerned, I am going to word it she is in the left hand lane. We will do a little Walt Disney to protect the cop, because it wouldn’t matter because she was drunk anyway,” said Pressley a 21 year police veteran.

“It’s disgusting the way the officer was so casual and how he manipulated the evidence in this case, he could very well face prison time,” Meltzer said.

The DUI charges that were made against Torrenvilas were dropped by the Broward State Attorney’s Office. They released the following announcement:

“The Broward State Attorney’s Office Wednesday dropped Dui and a traffic charge against Alexandra Gabriela Torrensvilas of Hollywood, the driver of the car involved in a collision with a Hollywood police cruiser Feb. 17 on Sheridan Street in Hollywood. The SAO’s action comes following a review of a videotape shot after the accident that could raise questions about the police account of the traffic mishap.”

Internal Affairs are investigating all four of the officers, Dewey Pressley, Joel Francisco, Karim Thomas and Andrew Diaz.

Police Caught On Camera Altering Report, 10news.com,July 29, 2009

Continue reading "Police Veterans Placed on Leave After Falsifying a Report Involving a DUI Crash" »

The Oceanside DUI checkpoint was set up to encourage safety among drivers and to decrease the number of people driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The Oceanside DUI checkpoint took place from 9:00 p.m. on Friday to 3:00 a.m. on Saturday, in the 1300 block of North Santa Fe Drive, in Oceanside.

The 14 citations given out by the Oceanside police were for people not having a license while driving, driving on a suspended license, operating a vehicle without insurance or possessing marijuana.

There were eight total drivers who took a field sobriety test for possible drunk driving. All of them passed and no DUI arrests were made, according to Sgt. Kelan Poorman.

Ten people who were driving without a license or a suspended license had their vehicles impounded. According to the California State laws, people driving without a license or on a suspended license can have their vehicles impounded for 30 days if caught by police.

OCEANSIDE: Ten cars impounded during checkpoint, North County Tyimes, July 27,2009

Continue reading "Oceanside DUI Checkpoint Nets 14 Citations" »

San Diego police made a number of arrests for drunk driving or DUI on Opening Day at the Del Mar Racetrack

In the areas of Del Mar, Solana Beach and Encinitas police officials made 12 arrests for driving under the influence, four arrests were made for drugs, a felony arrest for weapons possessions and one arrest was made for drunk and disorderly conduct.

Law enforcement also made arrests inside the Del Mar Racetrack and local bars in the vicinity. There were five arrests made for having alcohol in an open container, four arrests were made for drunk and disorderly conduct, and one arrest for false identification.

The sheriff’s department’s goal was to make opening day safer for everyone. More Del Mar DUI patrols will be happening throughout the racing season.

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.

DEL MAR: Authorities step up DUI, alcohol patrols at racetrack, North County Times, July 23,2009

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Del Mar Racetrack Sees Several DUI Arrests on “Opening Day”" »

Wednesday is opening day at the Del Mar Racetrack and law enforcement agencies will be in full force tracking down motorists who are driving under the influence or DUI.

Today from 3:00pm until midnight the DUI task-force will be patrolling Del Mar, Solana Beach and the surrounding areas for DUI and drunk drivers and those who are driving on a suspended license. This is the first of many DUI saturations that will continue throughout the racing season.

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.

DUI saturation patrol for opening day, Sign on San Diego, July 21, 2009

California DMV: DUI procedures if you are pulled over

California DMV guidelines about driving under the influence

Continue reading "DUI Law Enforcement for Del Mar Racetrack Opening Day " »

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

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

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

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" »

In Carlsbad a man driving under the influence of alcohol was taken into custody after hitting a pedestrian and fleeing from the scene.

Brian Campbell, 50, was allegedly driving drunk in Carlsbad about 3:10 p.m. on Sunday when his blue Chevy pickup truck hit Megan Smith 23, at the intersection of Maple Avenue and Carlsbad Boulevard, according to police Sergeant Paul Mendes.

Smith was treated for minor injuries by paramedics at the scene of the accident.

The Dui driver fled from the scene when officers approached Campbell. Soon after evading police, he crashed his pickup truck over an embankment in the 2500 block of Tamarack Avenue in Carlsbad where he was trapped in his vehicle.

After firefighters freed the intoxicated man from his truck, he was taken to Tri-City Medical Center for injuries. Campbell was taken into custody at the Vista jail where he was booked on suspicion of DUI, hit and run with injury, driving under the influence while on probation for DUI, driving on a suspended license, being involved in a traffic collision with injury while DUI, and driving under the influence with DUI priors.

Man Arrested in DUI Hit and Run of Pedestrian, San Diego 6 The CW, July 13,2009

Continue reading "Man Taken into Custody in Carlsbad DUI Hit and Run " »

A man suspected of driving under the influence crashes into the Chula Vista office of Bob Filner after driving over a spike strip laid down by police.

The DUI driver led the Chula Vista police on a high speed chase reaching speeds of up to 110 mph about 1:30 a.m. Sunday on State Route 54 after officers tried to stop the apparent intoxicated driver for speeding and not using his turn signals.

The drunk driver proceeded to lead officers onto southbound Interstate 805 before exiting on westbound Bonita Road. His silver truck stopped before hitting a spike strip that was laid down by a police officer at F and Third Avenue. Right then, the police officer pointed a gun at the man suspected of DUI and warned him to step out of his truck.

The DUI driver accelerated over the spike strip and through the intersection where he lost control, hitting a median, crashing and causing extensive damage to the Chula Vista office of Bob Filner at 333 F Street, according to Lt. Vern Solis.

The suspected drunk driver sustained injuries that were not life threatening and is being treated at the UCSD Trauma Center, once released he will be arrested and charged with driving under the influence, driving on a suspended license and felony evading police in this Chula Vista DUI case.

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.

Police: Drunken Driver Crashes Into Congressman's Office, 10News.com, July 5,2009

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Man Suspected of DUI Crashes into the Chula Vista Office of Bob Filner" »

Fewer San Diego DUI arrests were made over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, compared to last year, according to the California Highway Patrol.

This year’s holiday weekend there were 88 arrests made from people driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs on San Diego roads and highways, 66 less than in 2008. No traffic fatalities occurred on San Diego roads this year, compared to three in 2008.

According to the California Highway Patrol, throughout the state of California there were 16 traffic fatalities over the Fourth of July weekend. 1239 DUI drivers were taken to jail on suspicion of drunk driving.

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.

Bigger Crowds, Fewer Arrests at the Beaches over the 4th, San Diego 6 The CW, July 5, 2009

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego 4th of July DUI Arrests Down From Last Year" »

An Alpine man who has a history of driving under the influence of alcohol and was on a five day drinking binge when he struck and killed a bicyclist was sentenced to 11 years in prison.

The DUI driver, Travis Weber was driving drunk in his truck on December 2 on Alpine Boulevard when he struck and killed Eddie Costa, 33, while he was riding his bicycle. The drunk driver left the scene but was arrested by police 2 days later when friends spotted his damaged truck at a bar across from where they were holding a vigil for Costa.

This was not the first time Weber was charged with DUI. El Cajon court records state that in June of 2005 he was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol with a blood alcohol level of .22. He was also arrested with misdemeanor cruelty to a child by inflicting injury in 2004.

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.

Drunk Driver Who Killed Bicyclist Gets 11 Years in Prison,KFMB News 8, June 26,2009

Hit & Run Suspect Had Prior DUI, NBC San Diego, December 8,2008

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Alpine Drunk Driver Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison For Killing Cyclist" »

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" »

A man suspected of drunk driving and causing a two-car crash in the South Bay area of San Diego was arrested for DUI by police after fleeing the crash scene on foot.

The South Bay DUI crash occurred on Sunday at 10:36 p.m. on Jamacha Boulevard near Sweetwater. The man suspected of driving under the influence fled the crash on foot, said the California Highway Patrol.

With the help of witnesses, CHP officers found the unidentified DUI driver after leaving the crash scene. No one was hurt.

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.

Witnesses Help Track Down Suspected DUI Driver, San Diego News10.com, June 15, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego South Bay Suspected Drunk Driver is Arrested After Fleeing Crash" »

A man who was suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol fled the scene of a crash he allegedly caused in Escondido, was arrested shortly after being caught on foot by police officers.

The 53 year-old man crashed his sport utility vehicle into a Mercedes after running a red light at Valley Parkway and Midway Drive in Escondido. The suspected DUI driver fled the scene driving his SUV without its front wheels, which fell off in the crash, said an Escondido Police department watch commander.

Police eventually caught up to the man after he stopped the car and fled on foot. The man who did not have a driver’s license and suspected of driving while intoxicated was taken to the hospital for minor injuries. The driver of the Mercedes was also taken to the hospital for minor injuries, according to police.

The suspected drunk driver was taken into custody and booked on charges of hit and run and suspicion of DUI at the Vista jail.

Man Suspected Of DUI Arrested After Chase, 10News.com, June 4, 2009

Continue reading "Man Flees DUI Crash Arrested After Chase" »

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" »

An Orange County sheriff’s official was arrested in Irvine and charged in connection with DUI after crashing into the rear of another car.

At the time of the DUI accident Lt. Erin Lorraine Guidice, 48, was driving an unmarked OCSD car when she ran into the car in front of her at Jamboree Road. The driver of the other car was not injured in the accident.

The DUI driver’s blood alcohol level was 0.14 which is almost twice the legal limit. Guidice also had all of the characteristics of someone who is under the influence of alcohol, bloodshot and watery eyes and unsteady during a sobriety test., according to authorities.

Guidice was moved from her position as head of the Orange County Sheriff’s Harbor Patrol to another position at Theo’s Lacy Jail.

Guidice has been charged with two counts of misdemeanor counts of DUI. If convicted she could face up to six months in jail. Her arraignment is scheduled for June.

O.C. sheriff's official charged with DUI in Irvine accident, LA Now, May 29, 2009

Continue reading "Orange County Sheriff’s Official Arrested on DUI Charges" »

After a man was arrested on suspicion of DUI, a California Highway Patrol officer found what appeared to be a bomb, according to officials.

The incident occurred about 8:20 p.m.when the Sheriff’s department bomb squad unit was called in to detonate the explosive device which turned out to be a “sparkler bomb.”

James Thomas Jacquez, 41 was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence and felony possession of an explosive device on a public highway, according to the California Highway Patrol.

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.

Officer finds bomb after Oxnard traffic stop, Ventura County Star, June 2, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "CHP Discovers Bomb After Suspected DUI Arrest" »

A Riverside man who is accused of killing Angeles pitcher Nick Adenhart and two others in a drunken driving crash was indicted by an Orange County grand jury.

According to a news release from the office of the Orange County district attorney’s office, Andrew Thomas Gallo, 22, was indicted on driving under the influence causing injury, three counts of second degree murder, and felony hit and run.

Gallo’s blood alcohol level was 0.08 percent or more when he was arrested.

At the time the DUI crash occurred on April 9, Gallo was already on probation for a 2005 conviction of driving while intoxicated in San Bernardino County.

If Gallo is convicted of all charges, he is looking at a maximum sentence of 54 years and 8 months to life in prison. He is scheduled for a June 8th arraignment.

Ex-Riverside man accused of Angels pitcher Adenhart's death is indicted, The Press Enterprise, May 27,2009

Continue reading "Man Accused of Killing Three in a Drunk Driving Crash is Indicted" »

There were 104 DUI arrests made by the California Highway Patrol in San Diego over the Memorial holiday weekend.

According to the California Highway Patrol, there were four fewer drunk drivers arrested this holiday weekend over last year at the same time. No fatal traffic accidents occurred.

There was a small increase in the number of arrests made on suspicion of driving under the influence in California. This Memorial Day weekend there were 1465 DUI arrests made compared to 1445 in 2008.

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.

CHP: 104 DUI Arrests Made In SD Over Holiday, San Diego News10.com, May 26,2009
Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Holiday Weekend DUI Arrests in San Diego Down Over Last Year " »

Sobriety checkpoints will be in full force this Memorial Day weekend by CHP and law enforcement in a multi-agency “Avoid DUI Campaign.”

Jason King, a San Diego County Sheriff’s and campaign spokesman said that from 6:00pm on Friday through Monday at midnight, more police officers will be on the lookout for drunk drivers in the areas of San Diego, Encinitas, Escondido, Coronado, and National City.

In the unincorporated areas of San Diego, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Del Mar, San Marcos, Vista and Imperial Beach, Sheriff’s deputies will be out in full force as well trying to stop drivers from DUI.

According to King, 80 percent of all California Highway Patrol officers will be on duty to stop people from driving under the influence.

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.

DUI Crackdown Expected For Holiday Weekend, San Diego News10.com, May 22, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "California Highway Patrol Enforcing Intense DUI Crackdown " »

A woman was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Tuesday for a DUI crash that killed her passenger, an off-duty deputy.

Jessica Marie Cuevas, 31, was driving under the influence when she slammed into a tree on May 5, 2008, killing Jason Clay Peters, 36, of Fallbrook. Peters was a Riverside County Sheriff’s deputy for the Lake Elsinore station.

Cuevas who was a bartender at the Bikini Beach Club at the time, pleaded guilty to charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. Prosecutors say she should have known about the dangers of DUI, drinking and driving because of her career.

According to Cuevas’s defense attorney Peters was fondling her while she was driving, which made her lose control of her Honda and crash.

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.

LAKE ELSINORE: Woman charged with murder in friend's death, June 20, 2008

Woman gets 10-year sentence in DUI death of deputy, Sign on San Diego, Mayb 19,2009

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Woman Sentenced To 10 Years in DUI Crash That Killed a Deputy" »

A man who was suspected of drunk driving causes a DUI crash that kills one man and leaves two other women critically injured.

Gregario Diaz, 24, was driving under the influence of alcohol around 2:00 a.m. on the wrong way of the southbound Holly Drive ramp, heading north in the southbound lanes when he crashed into an on coming vehicle killing the driver, Guido Bisson, 46.

The two woman passengers in Diaz’s car suffered major injuries. One woman remains on life support with severe brain damage at Huntington Memorial Hospital.

Diaz was taken to County-USC Medical Center with extensive leg injuries and was later arrested for DUI.

A second collision happened, Jennifer Wrigley hit the back of Diaz’s sedan while it was on its side. Wrigley and her passenger were not injured.

Wrigley was arrested by police and taken into custody for suspicion of felony drunk driving.

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.

1 dead, 2 inj. in alleged DUI accident, ABC News, May 10, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "DUI Crash Leaves 1 Dead and 2 Injured" »

A judge sentenced a Riverside woman to spend six years and four months in prison for killing a soccer coach while driving under the influence of alcohol.

Ian Rezende, 48, a children’s soccer coach from Corona and a father of four died after being taken to the hospital from a DUI crash. His son, a passenger in his car suffered major injuries.

Verlyn Irene Haynes, 30 was driving home after having several beers at a friend’s house when she hit Rezende. She told police “I think I dozed off a little and I hit him,” according to court records.

In March Haynes pleaded guilty to charges of DUI vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence and DUI with great bodily injury.

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.

DUI crash that killed Corona man, The Press Enterprise, May 1,2009

Web Releated Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Woman Sentenced in Drunken Driving Crash That Killed a Soccer Coach" »

A man who was suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol was taken into custody after skidding off freeway into bushes, according to San Diego police.

The suspected drunk driver lost control of his vehicle in Normal Heights on the transition ramp from westbound Interstate 8 to southbound Interstate 805 around 8:45 p.m. Monday night, that’s when the California Highway Patrol got the call.

Several patrol officers and firefighters were called in to locate the vehicle after it ran off the freeway and into some bushes.

The man suspected of driving while intoxicated did not sustain any injuries. He was arrested taken into custody for DUI.

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.

Driver Arrested for DUI After Officers Search Through Bushes, KFMB News 8, May, 5 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Suspected Drunk Driver Arrested for DUI after Skidding off Freeway" »

21 people were arrested by San Diego police and the CHP for outstanding warrants for DUI offenders in a multi-agency crackdown in the South Bay.

The DUI sweep was funded by a grant from the State Office of Traffic Safety. Police departments from Chula Vista, National City, Coronado, and San Diego as well as the California Highway Patrol all took part in the operation.

“This was considered a successful operation, both in number of impaired drivers removed from the street and in the amount of public awareness generated,” said NCPD Agent Rusty Rea.

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.

A person that has been charged with driving under the influence has 10 days from the date the arrest was made to request a hearing with the DMV. If that hearing is not requested his or her license will be automatically suspended 30 days after the arrest was made.

DUI Sweep Nabs 21 Repeat Offenders, San Diego 6 The CW, April 30, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Authorities Arrest 21 in DUI Sweep" »

Former “Prison Break” actor Lane Garrison is scheduled to be released from prison early because of credits earned while incarcerated for driving under the influence.

Garrison who is now 28 pleaded guilty to vehicular manslaughter, felony DUI with bodily injury and one misdemeanor count of providing alcohol to a minor, in a 2006 DUI crash that killed a 17-year-old boy and injured two 15 year-old teenagers.

The drunk driver was sentenced to 40 months in prison. According to a California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation rep Terry Thornton, “We can confirm that he is going to be released to parole soon, but it is our policy not to disclose the inmate’s scheduled date for release date for security and safety reasons.

“He was sentenced to three years and four months, but inmates including Mr. Garrison, can earn credits that reduce the time they spend in prison. He received half time-meaning that for every day that he participated in a rehabilitative program, he got a day off his sentence,” said Thornton.

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.

Lane Garrison To Be Released From Prison Early, AHN News, April 24, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Lane Garrison Incarcerated for DUI Being Released Early" »

A San Diego man suspected of driving under the influence is responsible for a number of hit-and- run crashes before running head-on into a vehicle in the Jamacha area injuring two women and himself, according to the San Diego Police.

The accident happened about 8:20 p.m. in the 8600 block of San Vicente Street when the suspected DUI driver, 38 apparently missed a curve in the road and drove directly into the path of an oncoming vehicle, crashing, sending him and two women, 41 and 58 to the hospital, said San Diego Police Sgt. David Jennings.

The drunk driver was taken to the hospital with possible internal injuries. The driver of the other vehicle was hospitalized with a fractured foot and her 41- year old passenger with neck injuries.

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.

Suspected DUI Hit-And-Run Spree Ends In Crash, 10 News.com, April 27, 2009

Suspected Drunk Driver Blamed for Hit-and-Run Crashes, San Diego 6 The CW, April 27, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Man Suspected of DUI Causes Several Hit and Run Crashes" »

A man suspected of DUI crashed the vehicle he was driving into two parked cars in the driveway of a Mission Hills home early Thursday morning, escaped serious injury.

The incident happened in the driveway of a house in the 2400 block of Arista Street, when the sedan of the suspected drunk driver crashed into two parked cars around 4:00 a.m., said San Diego Police Sgt. Ramona Hastings.

Police say the sedan was traveling at least 60 mph when it crashed into the vehicles.

According to the owner of the home “I saw a young man laying on the ground curled up bleeding badly and I heard someone in the background just yelling you’re gonna be ok, you’re gonna be ok, and I told them I was calling 911. I ran in the house and called 911 and then I got the family together. We came around the front of the house and by the time I got around the front of the house they were gone,” said Greg Davis.

The man suspected of driving under the influence and his passenger were staying at a friend’s house down the street, when they decided to take the Hyundai out for a “joyride.” The car is owned by the stepfather of the friend who was on his honeymoon at the time.

The two men were taken to the hospital with injuries, but remain in police custody.

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.

Suspected Drunk Driver Crashes Into Mission Hills Driveway, San Diego News10.com, April 23, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelined about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Suspected Drunk Driver Crashes into Parked Cars" »

A man suspected of drunk driving is responsible for a high speed chase with police and two separate crashes that killed one man and leaves 2 others injured.

Silvero Morales Romero, 23, of Vista was speeding and driving under the influence in his 2001 Ford Explorer just after 7:00p.m. heading south on Interstate 15 when a California Highway Patrol officer pulled him over at Rainbow Valley Road.

Romero, who was driving without a license, sped off when the CHP officer asked him for his identification. He was exceeding about 100 mph weaving in and out of lanes, said CHP officer Eric Newbury.

The suspected DUI driver crossed over the double yellow lines and crashed head-on with a 1999 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck. Douglas Terry, 27, of Moreno Valley in Riverside County, was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The drunk driver continued driving the wrong way until his vehicle collided with a Ford F-150 truck driven by a 50 year-old man who suffered minor injuries as did his 43 year-old wife.

Romero’s explorer rolled down an embankment then came to a stop. He crawled out of his vehicle and fled on foot, but was only able to go about 50 feet before collapsing. His left leg was amputated below the knee in the crash.

Police arrested Romero and took him into custody where he is facing felony charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, felony evasion and hit and run.

Victim in fatal Pala crash identified as musician, student from Riverside area, Sign on San Diego, April 20, 2009

High-Speed Chase Ends With 2 Crashes, Fatality, 10 News.com, April 20, 2009

Continue reading "San Diego DUI Crash Claims the Life of One and Injures Two" »

A man was arrested for suspicion of DUI and gross vehicular manslaughter after a passenger in his car died early Saturday morning after a drunk-driving crash on Highway 78.

Lorenzo Gabriel-Lopez- Gonzalez, 45, was thrown out of a car that was driven by a drunken driver and landed in the westbound lanes of Highway 78 just west of Melrose Drive about 11:30pm.

Lopez-Gonzalez a married father was pronounced dead about 45 minutes after the DUI crash took place, according to the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Jesus Alonzo, 26, the driver of the vehicle was brought to a hospital where he was treated for his injuries and then taken into custody by police for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.

“Gross Vehicular Manslaughter while Intoxicated” carries with it a punishment of 4, 6, or 10 years in state prison.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego

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

One Killed In Suspected DUI Crash, 10 News.com, April 18,2009

Passenger in Drunk Driving Crash Dies; Driver Arrested for DUI, 760 KFMB, April 18,2009

Web Related Resources
California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Oceanside Man Dies in Suspected DUI Crash" »

A man suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol is arrested for a DUI crash early Sunday morning that killed a woman, according to a California Highway Patrol officer.

The DUI driver crashed his BMW when he lost control of his car around 2:10a.m. on southbound Interstate 805, north of the 54 interchange. His car went up an embankment then flipped, back onto the traffic lanes, said Officer Brad Baehr.

A woman passenger who was riding in the front seat was ejected from the vehicle and thrown into traffic lanes.

The woman who remains unidentified by the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office, was then run over by a pickup truck, but was already assumed dead.

Officer Baehr said, the driver of the pickup truck momentarily stopped after he ran over the woman but then drove away. San Diego police officers want him to contact them or witnesses to provide descriptions of the driver and vehicle.

The suspected intoxicated driver of the BMW was also thrown out of the car and taken to Scripps-Mercy Hospital where he sustained moderate injuries. He was then taken into custody where he could be facing charges for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.

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.

Passenger Killed in Suspected DUI Crash on I-805, San Diego 6 The CW, April 12,2009

Woman Killed In Single-Car Crash On I-805, San Diego 10 News.com, April 12, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Suspected DUI Crash on I-805 Leaves Woman Dead" »

A suspected drunk driver is responsible for killing Los Angeles pitcher Nick Ardenhart and two others on Thursday after a hit and run car accident in Fullerton.

Nick Ardenhart, 22 just finished pitching his season debut for the Angels against the Oakland Athletics throwing six scoreless innings.

At 12:30 a.m. a man suspected of driving under the influence in a red minivan, ran a red light and broadsided a silver Mitsubishi Eclipse that Ardenhart was a passenger in. The DUI driver fled the crash site on foot.

Andrew Thomas Gallo, 22, of Riverside, was captured and identified by police about 30 minutes later. Gallo was driving on a suspended license for a previous drunk driving conviction.

Gallo’s blood alcohol level was “substantially over the legal limit” of .08 percent, said Lt. Kevin Hamilton.

Ardenhart was taken to the University of California, Irvine Medical Center where he died in surgery. The driver of the car Courtney Frances Stewart, 20, and Henry Nigel Pearson, another passenger in the car were pronounced dead at the scene. Jon Wilhite, 24, a forth passenger in the car was in critical condition and expected to live.

Gallo is likely to be convicted of three counts of murder, three counts of vehicular manslaughter, felony hit and run and driving under the influence.

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.

Angels pitcher Adenhart killed in Fullerton crash, driver arrested, Sign on San Diego, April 9, 2009

Continue reading "Suspected DUI Driver Kills Angels Pitcher Ardenhart in Crash" »

A program in Riverside County that uses an alcohol monitoring bracelet for DUI offenders appears to be an effective deterrent to consuming alcohol.

A reading is taken every half hour from the bracelet, which measures the amount of alcohol in a person’s sweat. At least once a day, the information is uploaded via modem and a case agent checks any alcohol-detection alerts.

The program is known as SCRAM, Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor Program. Linda Connelly, president and CEO of Leaders in Community said that of the 55 people enrolled in the program, about 40 percent of them represent felony driving under the influence cases. About 49 percent are on informal probation for misdemeanor cases and 11 percent are enrolled on a voluntary probation.

Kathleen Brown, a spokeswoman for Alcohol Monitoring Systems said that case agents that review the data from the ankle bracelets can tell the difference from environmental factors that have touched off a positive reading and the consumption of alcohol.

Comedian Andy Dick was ordered to wear an alcohol monitoring bracelet for one year after being sentenced to three years probation pleading guilty to misdemeanor battery and drug possession in Murrieta.

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.

Riverside County program lets DUI convicts prove they're staying sober, The Press Enterprise,March 29,2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Program Lets DUI Offenders Prove They’re Staying Sober" »

A man suspected of drunk driving was taken into custody early Tuesday morning after crashing his truck through a convenience store front door, then leading police on a high speed chase.

The DUI driver pulled into a Circle K on College Boulevard about 3:20 a.m. to get gas, but the store was closed and when the clerk refused to sell him gas he drove his car through the front glass doors and then sped off.

The 33 year-old man was pulled over by police officers near Old Grove Road for driving under the influence, but as they approached his truck he drove off reaching speeds up to 90 mph and driving on the wrong side of the road at times, according to Sgt. Kelan Poorman.

As the chase continued, one of the patrol cars on pursuit crashed into a wall near Chroma Drive where the officer was taken to the hospital by helicopter and treated for minor injuries.

The man suspected of DUI, continued on SR 76, but police called off the chase for concern over public safety.

The drunken driver then took off again towards Oceanside. When officers saw him approaching Jeffries Ranch Road they laid down spike strips which he evaded and sped away again this time heading South on Interstate 5.

Police finally arrested the man about 4:20 a.m. when he stopped at a Chevron station on La Costa Avenue.

He was taken into custody on felony charges, including DUI, vandalism and evading a police officer.

Suspected DUI driver held after crash, chase, Sign on San Diego, April 7, 2009

Continue reading "Suspected DUI Driver is Arrested After High Speed Chase" »

Police arrest a Los Angeles Clippers player for suspected drunk driving on the southbound San Diego 405 Freeway early Monday morning.

Zack Randolph, 27, who plays for the Los Angeles Clippers was stopped by the California Highway Patrol in a white Roll Royce around 2:25am this morning because of suspected driving while intoxicated and weaving in and out of lanes.

In a statement issued by the CHP, Randolph was said to be driving “at approximately 60 miles per hour and weaving in and out of the No. 4 lane.” “Upon contacting Randolph, the officers noticed an odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from within the vehicle,” the statement continued. Officers determined that Randolph was “under the influence of alcohol,” according to the statement.

The suspected drunk driver was taken into custody for DUI. Randolph was released on $5000 bail about 9:00am this morning. He is scheduled to appear in court on April 27th.

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.

Clippers player Zack Randolph arrested in DUI, Contra Costa Times, April 6, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "DUI Arrest for Clippers Zack Randolph on San Diego 405 Freeway" »

A Perris man suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol lost control of his SUV and caused it to roll over killing his passenger in the crash, remains in jail.

Julian Hernandez-Gomez, 29, was taken into custody Saturday night on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter, DUI, and driving on a suspended license.

The suspected drunk driver lost control of his Jeep Cherokee just after 9:00p.m. on Saturday. He was heading northbound on Interstate 215 going about 50 mph when his SUV flipped over on the right shoulder south of the Ramona Expressway, according to California Highway Patrol Officer Sylvia Mosley.

The 33 year-old passenger who was from Houston, Texas was pronounced dead after paramedics arrived at the crash site. Hernandez-Gomez sustained only minor injuries. He is being held in Banning at the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility without 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.

Perris man suspected in DUI fatality remains in custody, Sign on San Diego, March 30,2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Man Jailed for Suspected DUI Fatality" »

Increased DUI patrols and sobriety checkpoints will be enforced by the California Highway Patrol along State Route 67 between El Cajon and Ramona, because of a $265,000 grant from the OTS.

The grant will target high collision areas along the 25-mile highway. Many of the accidents that have occurred have been drunk driving-related. 11 people died and 65 people were injured because of accidents stemming from driving under the influence, between 2005-2007.

In the past year and a half there have been many more DUI fatalities that have occurred along State Route 67.

The $265,000 grant has been funded by the state’s Office of Traffic Safety. “The grant will pay for aggressive DUI enforcement, public education and community outreach to try to reduce DUI-involved collisions,” said CHP El Cajon Area Captain Theresa Sumprer.

The California Highway Patrol will focus their efforts on increased sobriety checkpoints and roving DUI patrols. The grant money must be spent in the next year.

Tackling drunken driving on SR-67 focus of grant, Sign on San Diego, April 2, 2009

Continue reading "CHP Plans to Use Grant For Aggressive DUI Enforcement on SR 67 " »

In Clairemont on Monday, a suspected drunk driver struck and injured a bicyclist.

The man who was driving under the influence is said to be in his 20’s was arrested and taken into custody for DUI related charges, according to san Diego police.

About 11:30 a.m. on Monday, the bicyclist was riding on Balboa Avenue near Charger Boulevard when he was hit by the intoxicated driver. He was then transported to a local hospital sustaining a chipped tooth and a cut on his forehead.

The suspected drunk driver was driving on a suspended license from a previous DUI, said police, before being taken to jail.

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.

Driver who hit bicyclist is suspected of drinking, Sign on San Diego, April 1,2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Man Suspected of DUI Hits Bicyclist" »

A man who was suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol led police on a chase in Lakeside that ended when a pickup truck hit him when he fled his vehicle while trying to run from police.

Juan Manual Sanz, 43, of San Diego, died from injuries at Sharp Memorial Hospital that he incurred while attempting to cross State Route 67 at Vigilante Road, according to the San Diego County’s Medical Examiner’s Office.

Around 9:00p.m. Sunday, a CHP officer tried to stop the man that seemed intoxicated while driving a Cadillac erratically on State Route 67, just south of Mapleview, said California Highway Patrol officer. The suspected DUI driver started to slow down but then accelerated leading the CHP on pursuit.

The chase continued on SR 67 northbound at speeds of more than 80 miles per hour. Sanz crossed the double yellow lines many times and was driving on the wrong side of the road, according to CHP Officer Brian Pennings.

The chase ended at Vigilante Road when the suspected drunk driver left his car and fled on foot before being struck by a pickup truck. A 39-year old passenger in Sanz car was arrested. Drugs were also found in the Cadillac, said Pennings.

The driver of the pickup truck was not hurt.

Police chase in Lakeside ends badly for suspected DUI, Sign on San Diego, March 30, 2009

Man Killed By Truck When He Ran From Law ID'd, News 10.com, March 31,2009

Continue reading "San Diego Man Dies After DUI Chase in Lakeside" »

Monday police conducted a DUI warrant sweep in Chula Vista that ended with 5 people in jail.

Chula Vista police took 5 people into custody that were convicted of drunk driving, that violated orders to appear in court or did not complete their terms of probation in a DUI sweep.

The 5 driving while intoxicated suspects were arrested and taken to San Diego County Jail on Tuesday.

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.

DUI Warrant Sweep Nets 5 In Chula Vista, 10 News.com, March 24,2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Chula Vista Police Arrest 5 in DUI Sweep" »

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" »

A man from Imperial Beach suspected of driving under the influence who is on probation for DUI, led police on a chase in Chula Vista that ended when he slammed into a house.

The drunken driver was pulled over by police around 2:15a.m.on Monday for a traffic violation. As the officers approached his full size Chevy pickup truck on Quintard Street the man sped off, shortly after, he lost control of his truck and crashed into a house.

The intoxicated driver was pinned inside his truck. Firefighters had to pry the truck open to get the man out. He was then taken to a local hospital for his injuries.

A woman was at home when the crash occurred, but she was not injured. There was major damage to the garage and to a vehicle that was in it. Another vehicle was damaged in the driveway along with a neighbor’s car in the adjoining driveway.

The man was arrested on DUI 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. You may face a fine and jail time if convicted.

With police in pursuit, driver loses control, crashes into house, Sign on San Diego, March 23, 2009
Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "Man Suspected of DUI Crashes into House" »

A suspected drunk driver from Escondido struck three vehicles in a Laguna Beach crash that sent 3 people to the hospital with injuries. The DUI driver was arrested then jailed on suspicion of felony DUI.

The crash occurred at 5:32 p.m. on Sunday in Laguna Beach, on Pacific Coast Highway just south of Camel Point Drive according to Sergeant Eric lee of the Laguna Beach Police Department.

Eric Anwyl, 21, of Escondido, was suspected of DUI when he crashed into a moving vehicle carrying a man and a woman, then, struck two parked cars while in his BMW M3. Another woman was in one of the parked cars.

All three people were taken to local hospitals in the area where they were treated for their injuries. Their injuries were not reported as life threatening.

Anwyl was not injured in the crash. He was taken into custody on suspicion of felony DUI.

Escondido Man Suspected Of DUI In Crash Jailed, 10 News.com, March 23, 2009

Continue reading "Escondido Man Taken into Custody on Suspected DUI" »

A TV sports personality was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol after he almost struck a police officer on Saturday night, according to San Diego police.

KFMB-Channel 8 sports director, Kyle Kraska, was arrested for DUI near Sabre Springs.

A San Diego police officer was on a juvenile runaway call around 8:20p.m.when he saw a car speeding around the corner at Angelique Street and Avonette Court. The officer had to flash his lights and had to move out of the way to avoid getting hit by the vehicle.

The suspected drunk driver was in a 2003 Silver Mercedes, when he supposedly accelerated and pulled into the driveway of his home. The officer proceeded to follow him and arrested him.

Kraska was taken into custody and released on his promise to appear.

Driving Under the Influence in San Diego County

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.

TV personality arrested on suspicion of DUI, Sign on San Diego, March 18,2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego TV Sports Director Arrested on Suspected DUI" »

A San Diego woman suspected of driving under the influence crashed into a lagoon in Carlsbad early Wednesday morning.

Alicia Biggs, 22, of San Diego was driving drunk when her Toyota Tacoma veered off Interstate 5 through the guardrail and into the Carlsbad lagoon near Tamarack Avenue. The incident happened just after 2:00a.m., according to CHP Officer Eric Newbury. It is estimated that she was speeding at about 96 mph.

The DUI driver had moderate injuries and was able to swim to safety and call for help.

Carlsbad police found Amy Lopez, 27, a passenger in the drunk driver’s pickup truck floating face down in the lagoon fighting for her life. She was unconscious when they administered CPR after pulling her to shore. Lopez had been ejected from the vehicle.

The two women were taken to Tri-City Medical Center. Lopez is in critical condition.

Biggs will be charged with a felony DUI with injury when she is released from the hospital.

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.

Car Crashes Into Carlsbad Lagoon From I-5,10News.com, March 18,2009

Car Crashes off I-5 and into Lagoon; IDs Released, San Diego 6 The CW, March 18, 2009

Web Related Resources

California DMV guidelines about DUI

Continue reading "San Diego Woman That Was DUI Crashed into Carlsbad Lagoon" »

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" »