Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
Early Sunday morning April 27, Idaho Vandal’s wide receiver Dezmon Epps was arrested in Pullman, WA for suspicion of driving under the influence. According to news reports Epps, who is 21 years old, was jailed at the Whitman County Jail after refusing to post a $500 bond.
Epps was reportedly observed by a police officer driving in the wrong direction on a one-way street. According to police, Epps was arrested for misdemeanor DUI after failing a field sobriety test. Epps had a breakout junior season in 2013, however coach Paul Petrino said that he was disappointed with Epp’s actions, and that the matter would be reviewed. Petrino went on to say that students at the university who are athletes will learn responsible behavior and are held accountable for their actions.
Epps was scheduled to meet with a judge on Monday April 28.
In Washington, the penalties for a first-offense DUI include 24 hours to one year in jail, fines of up to $5,000, and driver’s licenses suspension for up to one year. It is also required that an ignition interlock device be installed in any vehicle the defendant may drive.
Michigan DUI defense lawyers understand the seriousness of being charged with driving under the influence, OWI, operating while intoxicated, or any of the terms used to describe drunken driving. Across the U.S. laws are becoming stricter in every state as lawmakers attempt to crack down on drunk drivers. Those who are convicted not only face substantial penalties, but a criminal record and in some cases damage to their careers.
In Michigan, individuals who are 21 years old or older and who are found to have a BAC of above the state’s legal limit of .08% while operating a vehicle will be charged with DUI. Criminal penalties include fines of up to $500, a maximum of 93 days in jail, community service, driver’s license suspension, and in some cases court-ordered completion of an alcohol or drug education program. This is for a first-time offense; as you can imagine, the consequences only become more serious with subsequent offenses.
If you have been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs it is important to take action to protect your legal rights and freedom. A capable Michigan DUI attorney will put his experience and skill to use to reach the best possible outcome, working to help you avoid serious criminal penalties.