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Seattle Police DUI Squad

Seattle Police DUI Squad

Here are some interesting facts about the Seattle police “DUI squad.”

1)  While enforcing traffic laws, DUI squad officers have authority to further investigate individuals for DUI, driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

2)  DUI squad police may be called to the scene of a car collision to specifically investigate drivers for DUI.

3)  Patrol officers who have stopped an individual suspect of DUI, call DUI squad officers to assist with the investigation of alcohol and/or drug impairment.

4)  Seattle DUI squad officers work late evening hours to early morning hours 7:30PM to  4:30 AM.  The DUI squad police are also required to be on call 24/7 to respond to any situation requiring their DUI expertise.

5)  DUI squad officers appear in court frequently to provide testimony on DUI arrests. DUI charge is the most litigated misdemeanor crime in Washington State.

6)  Most DUI squad officers undergo two weeks of extensive education and certification to become DRE’s (Drug Recognition Experts).  DRE’s have the ability to determine if an individual is under the influence of drugs other than, or in addition to, alcohol.

All information listed above was derived from www.seattle.gov

Seferian-Jenkins Charged With Misdemeanor DUI

Seferian-Jenkins Charged With Misdemeanor DUI

An update on UW’s football phenom Austin Seferian-Jenkins’ drunk driving accident that occurred on March 6; the Seattle City of Attorney’s Office has formally charged Seferian-Jenkins with a misdemeanor DUI after receiving his blood alcohol test results of .18, over twice the legal DUI limit of .08.

Immediately after the DUI accident, coach Steve Sarkisian placed the husky tight end on “indefinite” suspension, not allowing Seferian-Jenkins to participate in football practices or have contact with teammates.  In accordance with the University of Washington’s official student-athelete code of conduct,

When a student-athlete has been arrested or charged with a violation of criminal law, the student-athlete will be placed on administrative suspension from all team activities pending further investigation. If the alleged criminal activity would constitute a misdemeanor offense, the head coach may lift the administrative suspension after obtaining the approval of the sport administrator. If the alleged criminal activity would constitute a felony, the administrative suspension may be lifted only upon authorization of the Director of Athletics.’’

coach Sarkisian will be able to lift the suspension when he deems appropriate since Seferian-Jenkins has been charged with a misdemeanor DUI and not any felony charges.  Sarkisian stated in a recent interview, “He has already begun to take the necessary steps to return at the appropriate time.”

Seferian-Jenkins, possibly the nations best college tight end, will likely be back on the football field sooner rather than later.

See my previous blog on Seferian-Jenkins for further details pertaining to his DUI accident and continue to follow our blogs for the latest updates.

 

Written by S.O

DUI Penalties: First Time Offenders

DUI Penalties: First Time Offenders

Washington State is known for having some of the toughest DUI penalties in the nation.  These DUI penalties are harsh to prevent repeat drunk driving.  Penalties for a first time DUI offender are dictated by the BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) reading taken at the police station, consequences are worse for a BAC result more than .15 or a refusal to blow, than compared to consequences for a BAC result less than .15.

If the BAC result is less than .15; than an individual found guilty of DUI would be facing 1-364 days in jail or 15 days of EHM (Electric Home Monitoring).  Fines range from $941.00 to $5,000.00.  Their Washington State driver’s license would  be suspended for 90 days, and an ignition interlock device would be required in any car they drive.

If the BAC result is more than .15 or refused; than an individual found guilty of DUI would be facing 2-364 days in jail or 30 days of EHM.  Fines range from $1,196.00 to $5,000.00.  Their Washington State driver’s license would be revoked for 1 year if their BAC result was more than .15 or if the individual refused the BAC reading than their driver’s license would be revoked for 2 years.

In addition to jail time, fines, and license suspensions, any first time DUI offender would have to get an alcohol evaluaion and complete the recommended DUI treatment programs.  The judge may also order community service hours or work crew.

Contact the defense lawyers at David O Defense if you have been charged with a DUI.  We offer a free consultation to discuss your case.  Phone number 206-459-6392.