Since children are some of the most vulnerable members of society, police and prosecutors take crimes involving children very seriously. Many people may not think about children and drunk driving, but the two can be related. In fact, if children are in a car with a drunk driver, that driver can face increase penalties.
Recently, in Portland, a 29-year-old nanny had picked up four elementary school children from school and was driving them home. According to police, at the time the woman's blood alcohol content level was more than three times the legal limit. Police say that the woman sped through the streets of Northeast Portland before stopping and passing out at the wheel for a short time.
When she awoke, police allege that she continued to drive down local streets. She eventually, hit a local cyclist, police claim. Following the collision, she continued to drive for a short time, before once again pulling over and passing out. The children eventually were able to get out of the car and authorities were notified.
Following the incident, the woman was charged with DUII, hit-and-run, reckless driving and other criminal charges. She is due in court in early November.
Drunk driving charges like DUI, DUII or DWI can be increased under certain circumstances including when children are in the car. They can also be increased when people have a high BAC level, when people have multiple offenses or when they cause an accident.
This woman has two prior drunk driving related convictions, had children in the car and caused an accident. Therefore, she likely faces very serious charges. People in similar situations need to understand how important a criminal defense is. With the right criminal defense, people may be able to reduce the charges and limit punishments.
Source: KOIN, "Police: Nanny drives drunk with 4 kids," Brent Weisberg, Oct. 19, 2013
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