On Friday, January 24, Denver Nuggets’ Ty Lawson was arrested on suspicion of DUI. Denver police said the starting point guard was pulled over after an officer noticed Lawson driving “fast and carelessly.” While the team had no comments regarding the arrest, Lawson did return to the Nuggets on Saturday, and apologized for his actions although what he said to the team has not been publicized.
Brian Shaw, Nuggets’ coach, said that he left Lawson to deal with his teammates on his own, and that “For me, it’s no different than your own child doing something.”
Lawson was allegedly driving at speeds of 61 mph in a 35 mph zone in Denver when he was pulled over just before 1:30 a.m. on Friday. According to the arresting officer, Lawson’s eyes were bloodshot, his speech slurred, and his breath smelled of alcohol. The officer also said Lawson was stumbling and off-balance. Upon being transported to the Downtown Detention Center, Lawson refused a chemical test.
Lawson pleaded guilty in 2008 to underage drinking and driving while he was a student-athlete at North Carolina. He allegedly also told police that he had a previous DUI in Missouri.
Lawson’s first court date is scheduled for February 27, according to an article at the Denver Post.
It appears that Lawson has been arrested once for underage drinking and driving, and at least twice for DUI. In the state of Michigan, a second DUI within seven years of the first is a second DUI offense, which means the individual will face harsher penalties if convicted. These penalties include fines of up to $1,000, jail time of up to one year (a mandatory minimum of five days must be served), community service, and driver’s license suspension for one year. The offender will also have a criminal record.
Being arrested for driving under the influence does not mean the offender will be convicted. There are various legal options that may be available when charges cannot be dismissed. A skilled attorney will work with you to determine the best legal strategy so that the damage to your life is minimal.
If you have been arrested for a first or subsequent DUI, it is critical to consult with an experienced Michigan DUI defense lawyer who will work vigorously to protect your legal rights and freedom.