Police in Portland, Oregon, will arrest anyone they believe is driving under the influence. As a recent case shows, this also includes members of their own force. According to police, a 43-year-old sergeant with the Portland Police Department was recently arrested for DUI. Police claim that the arrest took place after the man supposedly crashed his 2014 Jetta into a yard, fence and fire hydrant, causing $5,000 worth of damage on 190th Drive at around 10:00 a.m.
Following the accident, police allege that the man was taken to a local police department. While there, he was offered a blood alcohol content level test. It is not known if the police officer took the test or his BAC level. However, the man was charged with second-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving and DUI.
Drunk driving accidents with property damage are serious offenses in Oregon. Residents facing these charges should understand how the process works to protect themselves against serious penalties. Following an accident, police might be quick to assume that a person was driving under the influence. Nonetheless, police need evidence of intoxication to make the arrest.
This evidence can come from a variety of sources, including a field sobriety test, a breath test or blood test. Each of these sources can be challenged and with the right legal help, the challenge could lead to a dismissed charge. This defense strategy will be important in avoiding the penalties associated with DUI. These penalties can include a driver's license suspension, jail time, large fines, increased insurance rates, mandatory driving classes and more. These penalties can be particularly burdensome for drivers facing multiple offenses.
Source: The Oregonian, "Portland Police sergeant arrested on drunk-driving accusations after crashing into fire hydrant," Helen Jung, Aug. 8, 2014
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