Getting arrested for driving under the influence is not an uncommon event. However, that doesn’t mean that the criminal justice system won’t aggressively pursue the charges. Someone convicted of a DUI could face jail time, fines and have his or her license suspended. This isn’t even to mention the impacts that could happen in one’s personal life. One recent DUI arrest here in Alaska could have that exact result and the woman accused will likely need a strong criminal defense strategy as she heads to court.
Officers say that they stopped an SUV after observing it traveling the wrong direction on a one-way street. Police claim that the SUV had damage on its front end, so a responding officer attempted to pull the driver over. The vehicle allegedly stopped only after nearly running into a fence, with the driver apparently not noticing officers’ lights, but pulling over for sirens. Police further allege that the driver showed signs of impairment and was unable to complete field sobriety tests.
The 27-year-old woman was arrested and had to provide a blood sample after a warrant was issued since she allegedly would not submit to a Breathalyzer. She has been charged with multiple crimes, including operating under the influence and driving while license suspended. Police say that the damage to the SUV was caused by a collision with a sedan at an intersection just before the driver was pulled over. That driver was injured, but able to provide information to officers and pursue medical treatment without assistance.
Though this particular case may seem fairly straightforward, it is good to remember that all people are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. For those facing charges as serious as these, criminal defense cannot be overlooked as conviction can have a profound impact upon a person’s life. An attorney here in Alaska who focuses on this type of case law can work to ensure that an accused person receives fair treatment from the judicial system.
