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Oregon man admits to drunk driving in Facebook status

Social media impacts many aspects of people's everyday lives. Without even thinking people post pictures, status updates and their whereabouts to various social media outlets on a daily basis. However, for one Oregon teen his statement on one of these social media outlets has led to criminal charges.

According to police, they received a call about a man who had posted on Facebook that he had been drunk driving on New Year's Day. As part of the status update, the man also allegedly apologized for hitting someone's car. When the police received this message, they claim that they were investigating a hit and run accident involving two damaged cars from earlier in the morning. Another of the man's 655 Facebook friends also reported the status.

Police officers allege that when they went to the 18-year-old's residence they found a damaged vehicle. The damage on the car was consistent with the damage found on the other vehicles. Police also claim that they found parts of the man's car at the scene of the hit and run.

Soon after the police arrived at the man's home, the police arrested him. He was sent to Clatsop County Jail and was charged with two criminal counts. The man has since been released.

When someone is stopped or questioned about a possible DUI charge, that person should know that they have a right not to talk to police. In these situations, it is often best to keep statements short and polite. People have no obligation to explain their actions or to consent to police questioning without legal representation present.

However, people should not refuse to follow police instructions or requests to submit to blood alcohol level testing -- including a field sobriety test or a breathalyzer. Being combative or refusing these tests can lead to additional criminal charges.

Source: KCBS, "Oregon Teen Arrested After Posting About Drunk Driving On Facebook," Jan. 8, 2013

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