Repeat Offenders: Multiple DUI Arrests Bring Serious Consequences
Arizona drunk driving laws have recently cracked down on first-time and repeat DUI offenders, who may face increased jail time, stiffer fines, and ignition lock devices in their vehicles.
April 20, 2011
Steve Urbansky aspires to be Lorain, Ohio's newest grounds crew member. The 46-year-old ran his Kia hatchback into a snow bank on the 13th of February. When the police arrived on the scene, Urbansky explained that he was "just trying to mow the sidewalk."Urbansky then failed a field sobriety test and confessed to drinking at home before he got behind the wheel. Police then found an opened can of beer in Urbansky's glove compartment. Urbansky, who has two prior DUI convictions (in 1997 and 1999), was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated, failure to control a vehicle, and violating the state's open container law. Although Urbansky's quip is humorous, the punishment repeat DUI offenders face is no laughing matter.
Phoenix man Jack Mizer, 54, has been convicted of DUI nine times in the last 20 years. Mizer's last offenses occurred in February 2010, when, within the span of 17 days, he was arrested twice for driving under the influence. In the first February 2010 offense, Mizer's blood alcohol concentration was .293, and he was ordered not to drink and drive; in his next offense, his blood alcohol concentration was .278. Now, Mizer is facing two ten-year prison terms, to be served back-to-back. If thus sentenced, he would not be eligible for parole until 2028.
Mizer's case highlights the severity of punishment that repeat DUI offenders face in Arizona. In 2007, the state cracked down on DUI offenders, requiring ignition lock devices for all offenders, not just repeat offenders. It also established a new, extreme DUI level, which includes offenders with a blood alcohol level of .20 or greater. First-time DUI offenders face ten days in jail and fines of at least $250. They must also attend alcohol education classes and perform community service.
For repeat offenders like Mizer, the consequences are more extreme. Jail sentences increase to 90 days or more, and fines to $500 or more. Repeat offenders can also lose their licenses for more than a year.
As Mizer's case shows, Arizona considers driving while under the influence a serious offense, and imposes harsh penalties for those individuals who are accused of repeatedly breaking the state's drunk driving laws. It is crucial for those accused of DUI to discuss their case with an experienced DUI lawyer.
Article provided by Craig C Gillespie, PC
Visit us at www.phoenixduilawyers.com