In the state of Illinois and across the country, a charge of driving under the influence can quickly lead to jail time as well as fines for those convicted. A DUI charge can also mean many sleepless nights filled with anxiety and worry, along with added stress on family members. However, just because an individual is charged with DUI does not mean he or she will be convicted. Recently, an Algonquin man was found not guilty after he was hit with a drunk driving charge.
According to police reports, the man was pulled over and smelled of alcohol. The officer said that he initiated the traffic stop because the man was driving 11 mph over the posted speed limit for that location. The officer claimed that the man was slurring his speech and had an open alcohol container in his vehicle.
Although the man refused to take a sobriety test or submit to a Breathalyzer, he was arrested and charged with driving under the influence, reports said. During the trial, prosecutors claimed that the man had prior DUI convictions and a history of driving while intoxicated. However, the defense argued that the man did not show impairment when operating the car before the traffic stop. Instead, the defense claimed the officer made assumptions that the man was impaired. The man was found not guilty of DUI.
Even if an individual refuses field sobriety tests, he or she can still be charged with driving under the influence. Those in Illinois that have been charged with a DUI should consult an experienced attorney. Obtaining the services of an knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer could prove imperative to one’s case and ensure that rights are protected.
Source: Chicago Tribune, “Repeat DUI offender who told cop to ‘go get real criminals’ during latest arrest is acquitted after refusing roadside tests“, Amanda Marrazzo, May 3, 2018