California DUI Enforcement Grants Issued; is San Mateo County Next?
California police enforcement agencies are funding increased DUI grants. Is San Mateo County next? And, will they make roads safer or increase instances of arrest without justification?
December 20, 2012
Driving under the influence is a major concern for the police departments in San Mateo County and across California. Authorities are determined to crack down on drunk drivers.To aid in these concentrated efforts, new grants have been awarded to several California police departments. However, residents express concern over these initiatives and some believe that they may simply encourage police to overreach their authority.
The new grants
Thus far, DUI grants have been awarded to two counties in California.
The Elk Grove Police Department recently received a $54,000 grant to fund special DUI checkpoints. Another grant was given to Placer County in the amount of $68,000. According to authorities, the money will be used to locate and supervise high-risk offenders. The offenders will be subject to random alcohol and drug testing, home searches and treatment programs.
It remains to be seen whether additional grants will be given in other areas of the state like San Mateo County. But one thing is certain: authorities are cracking down on drunk driving offenders.
Penalties for drunk driving in CA
Along with the increased scrutinization, the penalties for drunk driving in California remain steep. Depending on the charge, drivers can face different penalties including but not limited to:
- Fines in excess of $2000 when special assessments are added by the state and court
- Jail time
- Loss of driving privileges
- Ignition interlock device requirements
Additionally, all persons convicted of DUI are required to attend DUI education classes which can be very expensive and time consuming.
Together with these penalties, many drivers are likely to face indirect consequences of a DUI conviction in California. Applying for a job or housing could have negative impacts for those convicted.
DUI assistance in the San Mateo County area
Due to the seriousness of any DUI charge, seeking the help of an experienced DUI criminal defense attorney is advised. There are a number of ways police make mistakes with DUI arrests, particularly when there's pressure to increase enforcement. Obtaining the assistance of a DUI attorney who understands the law and the rights of an accused is essential to mitigating future repercussions.
Article provided by The Law Offices of Michael L. Davidson
Visit us at www.bayareadefenseattorneys.com