Many individuals worry about falling asleep at the wheel out on the road. Although potentially dangerous while driving, some may simply doze off while their car isn’t moving. If involved in a traffic stop during this time, a person could face criminal accusations shortly after. Unfortunately for one man in Illinois who was allegedly found under similar circumstances, he is now accused of drunk driving, along with other serious criminal charges.
Police claim to have located a vehicle in the early hours of the morning that was stopped in a lane of traffic near an intersection. Upon approaching the vehicle, they assert that the driver was asleep. After waking the man, field sobriety tests were initiated, and he was subsequently arrested for DUI. During this time, police allegedly found almost 500 grams of marijuana inside the vehicle.
He is now facing charges for driving under the influence, as well as charges for possession with intent to deliver marijuana. A conviction in either area would have a disastrous impact on the man in various areas of life. Other than field sobriety tests, there was no indication of further testing that would suggest intoxication, nor a reason given for the search of the vehicle.
Individuals have rights concerning the procedures used in the process of arrest, even if they are aware of them or not. When facing drunk driving charges, an accused individual in Illinois will often retain the services of a defense attorney for guidance throughout this stressful and intimidating process. An attorney can thoroughly examine the circumstances around the arrest and advise a client on the best course of action to take moving forward.
Source: Palatine, IL Patch, “Pound Of Pot Found During DUI Stop: Cops“, Joe Vince, May 22, 2017
