Those charged with underage drinking can face serious consequences, including license suspension. It is important for defendants to understand all of the charges against them, as well as their defense options. Minors often fail to take such charges seriously, under the impression that it will only be remembered as a youthful indiscretion, but in fact a conviction can carry consequences for years to come.
Late last month in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, a 20-year-old was arrested on the suspicion of underage DUI. According to police, an officer found the man asleep at the wheel of his black Chevrolet Tahoe, which was stopped at a red light.
The officer’s car was behind the Tahoe, and after waiting several seconds after the light had switched to green, the officer began honking his car’s horn. When the Tahoe still didn’t move through the intersection, the officer approached the driver and saw that he and his 20-year-old passenger were asleep.
The officer woke up the driver and conducted a field sobriety test, which the driver failed. According to police, the Tahoe was running, but the vehicle was in park. A bottle of rum that was mostly empty was also allegedly found on the vehicle’s floor. The man was transported to a hospital where a blood sample was taken, and the passenger was told to find another ride back home. The driver is now facing DUI charges, and his passenger was mailed a non-traffic citation.
It is imperative that people who face alcohol-related charges, especially underage defendants such as college students, are aware of all of their rights under the law. A strong defense is crucial, as criminal offenses often involve significant charges that can affect a person’s professional and educational future.
Source: lowerprovidence.patch.com, “Police: Pending DUI Charge for Underage Collegeville Man,” Gerry Dungan, Sept. 28, 2012
