Though the winter months are commonly referred to as “the holiday season,” law enforcement has given these weeks another moniker. “DUI season” is upon us, and Florida law enforcement is in high alert as they attempt to spot drivers who may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Though statistics do indicate that the winter months yield a higher number of DUI arrests, some of the accused may be victims of overzealous police action.
Recently, Florida police assembled a special task force to weed out drivers who may be under the influence. Deputies were surprised to find one of the drivers they suspected was one of their own. The man — a fellow police officer — was reported to be driving in a way that police felt warranted a traffic stop.
Though the officer, who was not on duty at the time, complied immediately and pulled over, he was asked to take a field sobriety test after police claimed they smelled alcohol. Though the man did not admit to drinking, he voluntarily completed the test, but fellow officers felt he did not do well enough to pass. There are no reports to suggest he was given a Breathalyzer test or blood test to prove he had alcohol in his system, but he was charged with DUI based on an officer’s perception of his performance in a field sobriety test.
When a Florida driver is charged with DUI, he or she may worry about presenting a solid defense. It can be helpful to enlist the aid of an experienced attorney. An attorney can help ensure an accused person’s rights are protected throughout each step of the legal process. All persons accused are innocent if and until they are proved guilty in a court of law, and each defendant has the opportunity to present evidence that may lead to a favorable outcome when the verdict is in.