On Monday morning, December 15, 51-year-old Allan Charles McTavish was stopped after a Hillsborough County sheriff’s deputy witnessed McTavish’s Chevrolet HHR run a red light, according to a news article at Tampabay.com. McTavish has been with the St. Petersburg Police Department since 1984.
Upon stopping McTavish, the deputy noticed an odor of alcohol, that McTavish’s eyes were bloodshot, and his speech slurred. When asked to get out of his vehicle, McTavish allegedly stumbled and fell against the side of his vehicle. He refused a breath and field sobriety tests, and was arrested before being taken to the county jail.
Police spokesman Mike Puetz said that until an internal investigation is completed, McTavish will remain on desk duty. The article claims that McTavish has had positive evaluations over the years he has been with the police department, and that his personnel file includes numerous thank-you notes from residents in the local area.
This story is a prime example of how anyone can get caught driving under the influence, regardless of his or her standing in the community. McTavish has been with the St. Petersburg Police Department for 30 years, and was apparently an exemplary employee. No one expects to get caught when they get behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming alcohol, but it does happen. Had McTavish’s judgment not been impaired causing him to run a red light, he may have escaped arrest.
While the article did not indicate whether it was McTavish’s first DUI offense, we assume it was. In the state of Michigan, a first DUI conviction will result in driver’s license suspension, possible jail time, fines, community service, and more. Those who are convicted also have a criminal record, which will have a negative impact on employment opportunities and more.
If you have been charged with DUI, it is important to fight the charge. Protect your reputation and freedom by working with a capable Michigan DUI defense attorney who will protect your legal rights and help you determine how best to proceed.