On Saturday, October 4, 25-year-old Chantel McCabe was charged with driving while impaired after she was stopped by police in the 1600 block of Glenwood Avenue in Raleigh, NC according to a news article at Newsobserver.com. McCabe is the sideline reporter for the Carolina Hurricanes hockey team, and hosts the pregame show on FOX Sports Carolinas.
In a brief statement issued on Tuesday, team president Don Waddell said, “In light of what happened this past weekend, we think it is best that Ms. McCabe take some time away from the team.” She was suspended for the month of October.
News reports do not indicate whether it was McCabe’s first offense, or what her blood alcohol content was. In North Carolina, the least serious DWI offense is considered “level five.” If found guilty, the defendant may face a minimum of 24 hours in jail and a maximum of 120 days behind bars, along with a $200 fine, community service, probation, and license suspension for one year.
Penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol are harsh all across the country, and differ by state. In Michigan, the penalties for a first-time DUI offender may include a maximum of 93 days in jail (although most first-time offenders will not serve jail time), maximum fines of $500, 360 hours of community service, completion of an alcohol education program in some cases, suspension of driver’s license for 30 days, followed by 150 days of restricted driving.
Unlike what was often the case decades ago, a charge of drunk driving will not get you a small fine and slap on the wrist. DUI is a very serious charge today, one that should not be taken lightly by those who are arrested. Not only will you face stiff penalties as mentioned above, you will have a permanent criminal record which can impact your life in ways you could never imagine.
If you have been charged with driving under the influence, consult with a capable and aggressive Michigan DUI attorney at once. An arrest does not necessarily mean you will be found guilty, especially if you have competent legal counsel in your corner.