Drunk driving charges can heavily impact your day-to-day life. Not only may those around you view you differently in the face of such charges, you may find yourself suspended from employment. Even if not, you could have your license revoked, potentially inhibiting your ability to get to work. Furthermore, your record may permanently be marked by a DUI conviction if you are unable to clear your name.
For a teenager in Quincy, this has recently become a reality. The 19-year-old was already on probation after an incident in November 2012, after which his license was revoked. The teenager was then apprehended by police again in February 2014. He was arrested after refusing to submit to a breath test.
With his previous conviction and the fact that he had already had his license revoked before the incident, the chances of escaping the charges against him seemed slim. The young man pleaded guilty and chose not to have a pre-sentence investigation carried out. This meant he could immediately begin his five and a half year sentence.
However, his plea agreement meant that an obstruction of justice charge against him was waived. He was also granted a request for impact incarceration, which may allow him to complete his sentence in as little as six months. This would involve him finishing a program at the Department of Corrections known as boot camp.
Entering a guilty plea is not the best choice for everyone, but it may have been beneficial for this Illinois teenager. If you find yourself in a similar position, an attorney can advise you on your options and help you come to a decision that might serve you best. With the right support, you may be able to avoid conviction completely, or at least negotiate a more favorable sentence.
Source: Quincy Herald-Whig, “Quincy teen sent to prison after second DUI conviction,” Don O’Brien, June 5, 2014