No matter what the circumstances, a DUI charge can be devastating. The punishments are harsh and a conviction can carry a social stigma which is difficult to overcome. Anyone who finds themselves in these circumstances absolutely must find the best attorney possible for the job to fight these charges — or at least make sure the rights of the defendant are observed at all times.
As proof such a thing could happen to almost anyone, an Upper Darby police officer has been charged with driving under the influence in a hit-and-run accident. According to investigators, he struck a car one night and just kept going.
The driver of the struck vehicle followed the officer’s car around the block and waited until the police arrived, where they found the suspect still behind the wheel of the striking vehicle. He was pulled over not very far from his home in Marple Township, and authorities believe he was going to head home when the accident occurred.
According to police on the scene, the striking driver wasn’t sure what happened. They believed him to be clearly impaired and were unable to do field sobriety tests. There wasn’t much talking, due to the driver’s state of mind.
The officer in question is 43 years old and has been with the police force for 19 years. At the time of the accident, he had been out of work for a number of months after an injury in the line of duty. He has been released on his own recognizance.
Whether a case of mistaken assessment from the police, or a moment of poor judgment on your part, experienced PA DUI lawyer Steven E. Kellis can help you in your DUI case. Call him for a free consultation and see just how he can help you in your time of need.