Off-Duty Florida Police Officer Facing DUI Charges

On behalf of The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A.

A Miami-Dade police officer has been charged with four DUI-related charges. According to reports, the 41-year-old man was off duty at the time but had hit a parked car outside of a grocery store before hitting a shopping cart containing two young girls. Specifically, the man is facing charges for DUI with property damage, two counts of DUI with minor damage to a person, and DUI.

Prior to his arrest, police officers administered a field sobriety test on the off-duty officer which he supposedly failed. Police also claim that the man was acting drunk and smelled of alcohol at the scene of the accident. Following the incident, the man has been suspended from his job with the police department.

It is not uncommon for drunk driving charges to have immediate effects on the accused. As can be seen in this case, the man immediately faces problems at work — similar consequences can occur for all those charged with DUI. People can also immediately face a drivers’ license suspension which can make holding a job difficult. It can also interfere with social obligations.

Additional penalties can accrue if a person is found guilty of driving under the influence. In these situations, people can face large fines, jail sentences, community service, mandatory alcohol education classes, and more. These charges will also go on a person’s record and may need to be reported to future employers, can affect car insurance rates, and will lead to additional penalties if the person is ever found guilty of DUI again.

While these penalties are severe, they are not automatic. All those facing DUI charges in the Miami area will have the opportunity to defend themselves. By exercising their right to an aggressive criminal defense, people can minimize the penalties that they face as a result of their arrest.

When you need a Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer, you can contact us by calling 954-533-2756 for a free consultation.