| Feb 26, 2025 | Case: 23-007747MU10A | Judge Francois |
| Facts: | The defendant was stopped for straddling lane markers on the highway. In addition, the defendant was clocked at 85mph in a 65mph zone. The defendant then slowed down in the far right lane to 10mph, eventually stopping in the right lane of traffic. Upon approaching the vehicle, the Trooper observed a strong odor of alcohol, bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. Upon exiting the car, the officer observed extreme unsteadiness. The Trooper then asked the defendant to perform a series of field sobriety tests. The defendant responded by saying it was up to the Trooper. There was clearly a language barrier between the Trooper and the client. Since the defendant never answered with a clear yes or no answer the Trooper arrested him for DUI. The Trooper then asked for a breath and urine sample. The defendant responded by saying "whatever you want to do just do it." The Trooper took that as a refusal to submit to a breath test. | |
| Defense: | The evidence made clear that the defendant never specifically responded to the Trooper's requests. In addition, despite the heavy accent it was evident that there was a language barrier between the Trooper and the defendant. These specific issues were raised with the prosecutor. The defendant had his charges reduced to reckless driving with no conviction of any kind on his record. | |
| Result: | The State dropped the DUI to a reckless driving. | |