DUI in the Spotlight in Illinois
By Dan Noll on June 6th, 2016 in Articles, General
DUI is currently in the spotlight in the entire state of Illinois, with many high-profile cases grabbing headlines. One such case involves Illinois State Trooper Paul Zurn, who pled guilty to a misdemeanor DUI charge in April of 2016. According to the Chicago Tribune, Zurn was driving under the influence while he was on duty. As reported by the Daily Herald, a man convicted of his fourth and fifth DUIs in Kane County was just sentenced to seven years in prison.
Enforcement and prevention measures are ramping up
As reported by MyStateLine, Illinois State Police are trying an old tactic to help curb DUI arrests in the state. Starting in April, officials from District 16 will post a public monthly list of DUI offenders. Twenty-five people have lost their lives because of drunk drivers so far this year in the Stateline area, and that’s the highest number it has been over the last five years. Officials hope that the monthly lists, which will not cost any taxpayer funds, help deter others from driving under the influence.
In Edwardsville, the Telegraph reported on one example of the special DUI measures popping up all over the state. The Edwardsville Police Department received a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation that it is using to fund special traffic enforcement periods. During these periods, one of which runs from May 16th to May 30th, patrolling officers will be out the lookout for impaired drivers, speeders and violations involving occupant protections. There will be a zero-enforcement policy for any violations found during the special enforcement period.
Random roadside checks appear to be up in the state as well. For example, the Wheaton Patch reports that the Warrenville Police Department and the Illinois State Police are partnering to conduct a roadside safety check in Warrenville over the weekend of May 21st. During the check, officers will be looking for anyone who is showing signs of driving while impaired. A zero-tolerance policy for any infractions will be in force during the roadside check period.
What to do if you’re charged
If you’re facing DUI charges, seek the help of an experienced DUI attorney in Springfield IL immediately. The potential penalties for DUI include prison time, probation, community service and fines, with penalties varying by case. A first-time DUI offense, for example, carries a potential sentence of up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine, and your license can be suspended for one year.
With so much focus on DUI in the state right now, sentences handed down for convictions may be more severe. Speak to a DUI attorney today to help protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.