Rockland County Defendant Beats DWI Charges
A well-known defendant in Rockland County recently escaped consequences for an alleged DWI by successfully arguing his traffic stop was “unwarranted.” This is a common strategy among DWI defendants in New York, and many police officers violate motorists’ constitutional rights before arresting them. If you believe this might have happened to you, consider a consultation with an experienced DWI defense lawyer in Rockland County. If you prove that your traffic stop was unconstitutional, you could experience the same positive results.
Rockland County Politician Has DWI Charges Dismissed
In October of 2024, various sources reported that a judge had dismissed DWI charges against a well-known Rockland County politician. The defendant is the leader of the local Republican Party, and he successfully argued that the arresting officer had no probable cause to pull him over.
The arrest occurred in December of this year, and it began when a state trooper pulled the defendant over for having a broken tail light. This caused a chain of events that eventually led to the man’s arrest. During the police interaction, the defendant repeatedly refused to consent to field sobriety and Breathalyzer tests. He then refused a blood test on numerous occasions after he was placed in custody.
The state trooper claims that the defendant exhibited “bloodshot and watery” eyes, slurred words, and the scent of alcohol.
However, the court agreed that these observations and allegations were irrelevant. The initial traffic stop was unconstitutional, and a broken tail light did not give the state trooper the legal authority to pull the defendant over. To support this argument, the defense attorney showed that the brake and turn-signal lights were still functional in the affected area of the vehicle. In other words, the vehicle was legal to drive.
What Should You Do After Being Pulled Over for a Broken Tail Light?
This story shows that even if you are pulled over for a broken tail light in Rockland County, the arresting officer could be violating your constitutional rights. Regardless of what happens next, a defense attorney may be able to show that the officer had no right to detain you or subject you to alcohol testing.
If you find yourself in this situation, consider remaining silent. Speak with an experienced defense attorney at your first opportunity, and avoid making any self-incriminating statements or actions until your legal consultation.
Can a DWI Defense Attorney in Rockland County Help Me?
If you are facing DWI charges, a New City criminal defense attorney may be able to help. Although showing that your traffic stop was unconstitutional is a viable defense, this is only one potential tactic. The most appropriate course of action depends entirely on your unique circumstances, and online research only provides limited answers. In contrast, a consultation with Phillip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law could provide more targeted legal guidance. Contact us today to get started with a personalized defense strategy.
Sources:
lohud.com/story/news/politics/2024/10/14/rockland-county-ny-republican-party-head-lawrence-garvey-dwi-charge-dismissed-by-judge/75668560007/
theguardian.com/us-news/2023/oct/17/trenton-new-jersey-police-doj-investigation
