Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
On Saturday evening September 19, 55-year-old Jose “Pepe” Diaz was stopped as he was riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle in Key West for doing 74 mph in a 30 mph speed zone, according to NBC Miami. Diaz, who is the Miami-Dade County commissioner, was arrested on Roosevelt Blvd. after his motorcycle fell over when he failed to put the kick stand down.
Although news reports do not reveal his blood alcohol content at the time, Diaz, an avid motorcycle rider, had attended the Key West Poker Run, a motorcycle event that draws thousands of bikers according to news reports. Diaz was elected District 12 commissioner in 2002 after serving as mayor of Sweetwater.
The commissioner was jailed in Monroe County Saturday night, and released just before noon on Sunday after posting a $1,000 bond according to Monroe County Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Becky Herrin. Diaz would not discuss the details of his arrest at the time, but did say he looked forward to resolving the issue. He went on to say that he would continue to serve his community in the meantime, and that he requested the community’s patience during this time.
In the state of Florida, those convicted on a first DUI may face a maximum of six months in jail, fines, community service, probation, driver’s license revocation, DUI school, and more. Many people across the country are not aware of just how serious driving under the influence really is – it is a criminal offense, one that can leave the accused facing serious consequences.
In Michigan, as in most other states, the punishment an individual will face if found guilty of driving under the influence depend on a number of factors. These factors may include whether it is a first, second, or subsequent offense, whether a minor was in the vehicle at the time of arrest, whether anyone was injured/killed, and more.
Drunk driving is a very serious matter that can impact a person’s freedom, reputation, and career. If you have been arrested on charges of driving under the influence, contact an experienced Michigan DUI attorney immediately so that your legal rights can be protected, and work can begin to protect your freedom.