Things are looking up for a police officer who was suspected of a Denver DUI in February.
Our Denver DUI defense attorneys know that anytime someone is convicted of such an offense, they’re facing penalties that can range from probation two years in jail, not to mention costly fines. However, for a law enforcement officer or someone in a position of public trust, the consequences are often more severe. That’s because a conviction – or sometimes, just an arrest – can mean sanctions from your employer, up to and including termination and difficulty finding future employment.
Partially, this has to do with the fact that if you’re a police officer, you won’t be able to conduct patrols if you’re license is suspended. Also, though, it has to do with the reputation you are sworn to uphold. For better or worse, law enforcement officers are held to a higher standard. So when an officer is found to be on the opposite side of the law, there is often very little leniency.
However, having a solid Denver DUI attorney in your corner can make all the difference.
In this case, The Denver Post reports that the detective in question was reportedly off-duty when he crashed into a pole while on his motorcycle. The 52-year-old veteran investigator reportedly lost control of his motorcycle near Atkins Court, shortly after 1 am.
He was taken to a local emergency room, where he was interviewed by a DUI investigator, who reported he smelled an especially strong odor of alcohol on his fellow law enforcement officer. The DUI investigator implored the other detective to submit to a blood test, or risk losing his driver’s license for up to a year according to state law, the detective refused.
Afterward, when the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles held a hearing on that suspension, the DUI investigator didn’t show up. He later said he never received notice that he was supposed to appear, meaning the detective who had crashed was allowed to keep his license.
Prosecutors declined to take on the case, citing a lack of evidence.
Originally, the Civil Service Commission, which oversees personnel matters involving law enforcement, handed down a 90-day suspension for the officer’s alleged actions that night. Now, however, that sentence has been reduced to two weeks.
The Civil Service Hearing Officer was quoted as saying that while the officer was likely somewhat impaired, there simply wasn’t enough evidence to show that he met the legal definition of driving under the influence.
If you’re facing current criminal charges, Ellmann & Ellmann Law firm has helped countless clients find success in the expungement process. Contact or Call them today.
