Not all criminal activity is created equal. Depending on the circumstances in each case, the charges, and the punishments, for similar crimes can vary quite a bit. One example of this is in drunk driving cases. Depending on the facts, motorists who are accused of drunk driving can face a variety of different charges. In most situations, those accused of driving under the influence will face misdemeanor charges. First-time offenders in Oregon can expect a fine of at least $1,000, jail time or community service and probation. However, the more times a person is charged with a DUII, the more severe the punishments become. If someone in Oregon has multiple offenses they can even face felony DUII charges.
This is the case for one Portland man. According to police, this man was driving on Aug. 30 when he allegedly hit two people with his car. After the impact, the man stopped the car and got out. Police claim that while exiting the car, the 50-year-old man was slurring his words, had bloodshot eyes and smelled like alcohol. The man allegedly admitted to officers that he had been drinking. He also supposedly admitted that he had smoked marijuana before driving.
According to the police, this man had three prior arrests for DUII. Therefore, he was charged with more serious charges including reckless driving, recklessly endangering another person, second-degree assault, third-degree assault and driving under the influence of intoxicants. This man is now being held on over $500,000 bail. He could face serious penalties, including prison time.
Source: The Oregonian, "Motorist with 3 prior DUII convictions strikes two pedestrians in Portland and is back in custody," Maxine Bernstein, Sept. 4, 2012
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