In some cases, an individual in a position of power might use authority to make up for a lack of experience. Unfortunately, this can cause others to suffer as a result, some of whom might be unable, or even unwilling, to speak up for themselves. A college professor in South Carolina claims that inexperience led to his arrest after he was accused of drunk driving.
According to reports, the man was involved in a routine traffic stop at night after allegedly making an improper turn. He was then accused of driving under the influence. The officer claimed to have smelled alcohol on his breath and began to administer field sobriety tests. The man says that the officer was using an instruction book during the tests, and appeared to be unfamiliar with the procedures.
He was taken into custody shortly after, where he reportedly submitted a breath test that indicated his blood alcohol content was zero. He says the officer then claimed the man had taken drugs, and took him to a medical facility for a urine test before transporting him to jail. After being released from jail, the man asked for a trial by jury, and the charges against him were eventually dropped by the city.
Facing drunk driving allegations can be a stressful and intimidating process, but an accused individual does not have to go through it alone. Those who are facing similar charges often retain the services of a defense attorney for guidance and assistance. An attorney in South Carolina can evaluate the charges against a client, along with the procedures used during arrest, and assist in preparing and presenting a strong defense, which could help reduce the charges or, in some cases, get them dropped altogether.
Source: thestate.com, “It was a bungled DUI arrest but University of South Carolina-Lancaster kept his cool and sent a $200,075 message to Columbia police“, John Monk, June 1, 2017
