When it comes to driving under the influence of alcohol, a conviction for even a first offense can carry serious penalties that can affect a person's life substantially. However, the presence of additional charges may only increase the severity of the penalties one may face. After being arrested on suspicion of her first drunk driving offense, allegations of reckless behavior have left a 30-year-old woman in Wisconsin facing felony charges.
Law enforcement agents assert the incident began when they received reports of a wrong-way driver. Upon arriving at the scene, police initiated a traffic stop and while speaking with the driver, they assert that she was exhibiting signs of impairment. A breath test reportedly indicated her blood alcohol content to be more than two times the legal limit to drive, and she was arrested on suspicion of impairment.
Although this would be her first offense if a conviction was obtained, police claim that a camera recorded footage of her involvement in a nearly-missed collision just before the traffic stop took place. According to police, the footage showed her swerve away from another vehicle while operating in the wrong lane. With the addition of the reckless driving charges, she reportedly faces up to 10 years behind bars and substantial monetary fines.
Navigating the criminal justice system can be a complex and intimidating process and those who face drunk driving charges could benefit in seeking advice as soon as possible. By speaking with an attorney, a person in Wisconsin could obtain advice on what to expect from the process and how to prepare for the next steps. An attorney can examine the charges and evidence against a client and assist him or her in forming a strong defense for use during legal proceedings.
