Charges: DUI
A Gainesville Police Department officer observed a vehicle that was traveling westbound with its high beams on in heavy traffic. The officer made a u-turn and caught up with the vehicle, eventually conducting a traffic stop. The officer observed the driver’s high beams indicator on the dashboard when he made contact with the driver. The driver stated her high beams were activated because one of the headlights was out. During this interaction, the officer noticed a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from the vehicle and the driver had bloodshot and watery eyes. The driver, who was wearing a paper wristband typically given at bars, struggled with papers when looking for her registration.
The officer asked the driver to exit the vehicle. The driver advised the officer that she had a broken foot and that it was difficult to walk. The driver walked with a noticeable limp. The driver stated she was a designated driver, and had only one mixed drink. While retrieving something from the vehicle, the driver hit herself in the head with the car door. The officer conducted field sobriety exercises and the driver performed poorly. The driver was arrested for DUI and following implied consent, provided breath samples. The driver blew a 0.138g/210L and 0.138g/210L.
The driver retained Meldon Law and we were able to enroll her in a deferred prosecution program. Upon completion of the program, the driver was able to plea to the reduced charge of reckless driving with alcohol and have her adjudication of guilt withheld. The driver was able to receive minimal penalties as a result of this agreement.
