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Drunk Driving Is A Serious Offense.
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Tacoma City Councilman Ryan Mello has entered a plea deal that will help him avoid a DUI charge. Mello’s DUI charge will not appear on his criminal record if complies with the conditions of his plea deal requiring him to attend a DUI Victim Panel, seek treatment for chemical dependency and pay $900 in fees.
(Related: DUI First Offense)
He apologized in a statement made to the News Tribune, claiming that he made a mistake that night and he was sorry, adding that he has taken full responsibility and will cooperate with the prosecutor.
Claire Bradley, the Deputy Prosecutor said that the plea deal was fairly standard for a first time offender who was close to the legal limit. The Tacoma City Councilman was arrested on January 19, 2012 after the officer who pulled him over detected an odor of alcohol on his breath. Mello, the driver of his Jeep with several passengers was asked to step out of the car and perform a number of field sobriety tests.
According to arresting officer Guy Gill, Mello did not identify himself as a Tacoma City Councilman was extremely cooperative through the process. Police also noted that Mello’s blood alcohol content (BAC) did exceed the legal limit of .08%.
(Related: DUI Second Offense)
Even for a DUI first offense, you face serious potential punishments. Depending on the judge you draw—and we know which ones have a history of tough sentencing—jail time is a real possibility.
What’s more, in cities throughout Oakland, Wayne, and Macomb Counties, you’re up against hardened prosecutors and career politicians who are measured by the frequency and severity of their convictions. Especially with drunk drivers.
This is not the time to experiment with self-representation or plead to the charges “just to get it over with.”
At Rudoi Law, we have the OWI (DUI) expertise you need. We understand the criminal system. We know the defense strategies that have won in court. And we understand the judges and prosecutors working in Metro Detroit today. We’ll give you the tough defense you deserve, all while demystifying a complex process.
(Related: What to do when pulled over for Drinking when Driving)
What’s more, we understand the needs of our clients. Battling for your future can be emotionally draining. And for many people, a first offense DUI Charge is the only trouble they’ve had with the law. That’s one of the reasons why we work so hard. We believe one mistake shouldn’t compromise a lifetime of work or cost you your freedom.
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