By Nicholas Dorsten, Esq.
From the Tampa Times website, a man who was involved in a deadly fleeing and eluding crash was found to be high on prescription drugs and cocaine...
ST. PETERSBURG, FL — A suspect that tried to flee from officers on Jan. 10, but instead ended up causing a wreck that left him and five other people hospitalized and one person — the suspect's passenger, the man police actually wanted — dead.
St. Petersburg police arrested the suspect after he was released from the hospital on Wednesday, and revealed more about the man behind the wheel: He was high on prescription drugs and cocaine at the time of the crash and hadn't had a valid license in four years.
The driver, who was 40 at the time of the fatal crash, was charged with DUI manslaughter in the death of his passenger. He also faces charges of fleeing and eluding an officer with wanton disregard causing death, DUI involving serious bodily injury, driving with a suspended or revoked licence resulting in death, and two counts of DUI resulting in property damage.
On the day of the crash police were looking for a passenger in connection with a purse-snatching. Relatives told police the 29-year-old was a drug addict who regularly stole to support his habit. Officers said they were also told the man had carried a weapon in the past and vowed that he would not go back to prison.
Police found him in the passenger seat of a Kia driven by the suspect. They tried to stop the car at 22nd Avenue S and 46th Street S. A pursuit was authorized. A few minutes later, a K-9 officer activated his emergency lights and tried to pull the Kia over as it drove in St. Petersburg.
A minute later, police said the Kia turned into oncoming traffic on Fifth Avenue N, striking a 2000 Ford pick-up head-on and injuring the two occupants.
The wanted passenger was killed by the impact, police said. The suspect and the occupants of the other vehicles were hospitalized for various injuries. A blood test showed he had traces of oxycodone, opiates, benzodiazepines and cocaine in his system.
The suspect had also been declared a habitual traffic offender in 2008, records show. This means he was not even supposed to be driving.
Have you or a loved one been arrested for a DUI or a prescription drug offense? Then call the St. Petersburg criminal defense lawyers at 727.286.6141 for a free consultation!
For more information or to speak directly to your St. Pete criminal defense attorneys,call the number above or click on contact. We are located at 4707 140th ave N, Suite 104, Clearwater, minutes from both the Tampa and the Pinellas county courthouses.
Welcome to the blog of a Clearwater-based Tampa bay area criminal defense attorney. Visit our website at www.BlakeDorstenLaw.com or call us at 727-286-6141 for all your legal needs. Our office is located across from the 49th street criminal courthouse, minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg at 4707 140th Ave N, Suite 104, Clearwater 33762.
Showing posts with label DUI. Show all posts
Showing posts with label DUI. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - More Bucs = More Trouble!
By Nicholas Dorsten, Esq.
While this season has been an umitigated disaster for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, at least the players are still getting in trouble like champions! This follows a long line of Tampa Bay arrests that we have blogged about here before (see here, here, here, here and here...Also here, here and here (Did I mention the Bucs are getting arrested a lot)?
Postscript: As of this writing, the charges against this player looks like they will be dropped...
TAMPA — The victim of a severe beating said Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back LeGarrette Blount was "the leader" of the assault and directed the two men who attacked him, according to a Tampa police report.
The report said Blount refused to cooperate with the investigation of a possible felony battery, which took place in the parking garage of his apartment complex.
Blount, 25, was not charged in the Sept. 11 incident, nor was he accused of any direct violence.
Blount's attorney said his client "didn't do anything. There was an altercation, but it didn't involve LeGarrette. He wasn't ring-leading anything. But what LeGarrette does do is play in the NFL.
"When this guy found out who he was,'' the attorney continued, his (the victim's) attorney called the Bucs and asked for $95,000 in compensation and warned that if that was not forthcoming, the attorney would go public. The request was rejected.
According to the police report of the incident, the victim, 34, and his girlfriend, 29, both wearing Bucs shirts, drove a 2008 Toyota pickup into the Visconti at International Drive apartments not far from Raymond James Stadium about 6:30 p.m. They were returning from that days' Bucs game against the Detroit Lions.
Their pickup hit the mirror on a 2005 Ford Expedition, next to which Blount and two men were standing. The "victim" told police he did not want to stop next to the Expedition because his pickup would block traffic. He pulled around a corner, stopped and rolled down his window.
He said the Expedition came around the corner and cut him off. Three men got out and one of them "reached in and punched me several times on his eye, nose and jaw,'' according to the report. The man "realized a second male was on his hood and was jumping onto his windshield and ultimately shattering the glass."
The "victim" said the third man "was the leader and directed the actions of the other two.'' The girlfriend supported that version of events.
The man told police "the third male was very large." That man, who turned out to be the 6-foot, 247-pound Blount, never hit anyone or touched the victim's pickup, the report said.
The man told police he feared he had a broken nose. He "also stated that his jaw is misaligned and he believes his jaw bone is swollen or displaced because he cannot chew food.
When police contacted Blount, he made a statement about the crash but days later would "not discuss his involvement in the'' attack, according to the report.
The report said police did not pursue possible charges of "burglary for the purpose of committing battery, felony battery and felony criminal mischief'' at the man's request.
Blount perceived the man to be drunk that day. Police noted beer cans in the bed of his truck. In January 2008, the victim was arrested and accused of DUI. The charge was later reduced to reckless driving.
The man told police investigating the September incident that he went to the Bucs game with friends and was the designated driver, a detail that his girlfriend, supported.
The victim said in a statement released Tuesday night that he just wanted to recover his "medical expenses and damages." His attorney later denied that this was a "money grab," adding: "The facts … in the police report clearly reflect that our client was the victim of severe bodily injury and property damages."
Blount, who played college ball for the University of Oregon, gained unwanted national attention in 2009 after his team lost its season opening game to Boise State 19-8. TV cameras caught him sucker punching a Boise player. Oregon suspended Blount for most of that season.
Blount, despite the apparent battery, has no criminal record in either Oregon or Florida.
No NFL team picked Blount in the 2010 NFL draft. He signed as a free agent with the Tennessee Titans and got into a practice field fight with a teammate. Tampa Bay picked him up after he was released by the Titans. He was the Bucs' leading rusher last year.
Buccaneer communications director issued a statement that said: "LeGarrette Blount immediately informed the organization of this situation back in September. We have reviewed the incident report and spoken with the police. The Tampa Police Department confirmed that the case is closed."
Have you or a loved one been arrested for a battery or a DUI? Then contact the Clearwater criminal defense attorneys of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. for a free consultation!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced Clearwater criminal defense lawyers please contact BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email the lawyers your questions at: info@blakedorstenlaw.com. We are located at 4707 140th Ave N, Suite 104 in Clearwater, across from the criminal courthouse in the airport business center, minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg.
While this season has been an umitigated disaster for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, at least the players are still getting in trouble like champions! This follows a long line of Tampa Bay arrests that we have blogged about here before (see here, here, here, here and here...Also here, here and here (Did I mention the Bucs are getting arrested a lot)?
Postscript: As of this writing, the charges against this player looks like they will be dropped...
TAMPA — The victim of a severe beating said Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back LeGarrette Blount was "the leader" of the assault and directed the two men who attacked him, according to a Tampa police report.
The report said Blount refused to cooperate with the investigation of a possible felony battery, which took place in the parking garage of his apartment complex.
Blount, 25, was not charged in the Sept. 11 incident, nor was he accused of any direct violence.
Blount's attorney said his client "didn't do anything. There was an altercation, but it didn't involve LeGarrette. He wasn't ring-leading anything. But what LeGarrette does do is play in the NFL.
"When this guy found out who he was,'' the attorney continued, his (the victim's) attorney called the Bucs and asked for $95,000 in compensation and warned that if that was not forthcoming, the attorney would go public. The request was rejected.
According to the police report of the incident, the victim, 34, and his girlfriend, 29, both wearing Bucs shirts, drove a 2008 Toyota pickup into the Visconti at International Drive apartments not far from Raymond James Stadium about 6:30 p.m. They were returning from that days' Bucs game against the Detroit Lions.
Their pickup hit the mirror on a 2005 Ford Expedition, next to which Blount and two men were standing. The "victim" told police he did not want to stop next to the Expedition because his pickup would block traffic. He pulled around a corner, stopped and rolled down his window.
He said the Expedition came around the corner and cut him off. Three men got out and one of them "reached in and punched me several times on his eye, nose and jaw,'' according to the report. The man "realized a second male was on his hood and was jumping onto his windshield and ultimately shattering the glass."
The "victim" said the third man "was the leader and directed the actions of the other two.'' The girlfriend supported that version of events.
The man told police "the third male was very large." That man, who turned out to be the 6-foot, 247-pound Blount, never hit anyone or touched the victim's pickup, the report said.
The man told police he feared he had a broken nose. He "also stated that his jaw is misaligned and he believes his jaw bone is swollen or displaced because he cannot chew food.
When police contacted Blount, he made a statement about the crash but days later would "not discuss his involvement in the'' attack, according to the report.
The report said police did not pursue possible charges of "burglary for the purpose of committing battery, felony battery and felony criminal mischief'' at the man's request.
Blount perceived the man to be drunk that day. Police noted beer cans in the bed of his truck. In January 2008, the victim was arrested and accused of DUI. The charge was later reduced to reckless driving.
The man told police investigating the September incident that he went to the Bucs game with friends and was the designated driver, a detail that his girlfriend, supported.
The victim said in a statement released Tuesday night that he just wanted to recover his "medical expenses and damages." His attorney later denied that this was a "money grab," adding: "The facts … in the police report clearly reflect that our client was the victim of severe bodily injury and property damages."
Blount, who played college ball for the University of Oregon, gained unwanted national attention in 2009 after his team lost its season opening game to Boise State 19-8. TV cameras caught him sucker punching a Boise player. Oregon suspended Blount for most of that season.
Blount, despite the apparent battery, has no criminal record in either Oregon or Florida.
No NFL team picked Blount in the 2010 NFL draft. He signed as a free agent with the Tennessee Titans and got into a practice field fight with a teammate. Tampa Bay picked him up after he was released by the Titans. He was the Bucs' leading rusher last year.
Buccaneer communications director issued a statement that said: "LeGarrette Blount immediately informed the organization of this situation back in September. We have reviewed the incident report and spoken with the police. The Tampa Police Department confirmed that the case is closed."
Have you or a loved one been arrested for a battery or a DUI? Then contact the Clearwater criminal defense attorneys of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. for a free consultation!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced Clearwater criminal defense lawyers please contact BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email the lawyers your questions at: info@blakedorstenlaw.com. We are located at 4707 140th Ave N, Suite 104 in Clearwater, across from the criminal courthouse in the airport business center, minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - Calling 911 Backfires
By Nicholas Dorsten, Esq.
From the Bay News 9 website, a short but funny story regarding a man who won't take "no" for an answer...
A Largo man's late night craving and demand for tacos landed him in the Pinellas County jail for misuse of a 911 system.
Terry Kimbell, 50, called 911 from his cell phone to inform the dispatcher Taco Bell would not sell him tacos while he stood in the drive-thru lane Tuesday night, according to a Largo police report.
The website obtained the 911 call through a public records request:
911: "Largo emergency."
Kimbell: "It's not an emergency. However, can you -- can you put me through to dispatch? I'm at the Taco Bell, and I walked in, and I left my car on purpose, so I wouldn't drink and drive. I walked up, they wouldn't serve me. So, I'm at the Taco Bell at 137th and Walsingham and I just want some tacos. That's it."
Kimbell tells the dispatcher he has the munchies. He'd been drinking alcohol, according to the police report.
911: "What are the employees saying?"
Kimbell: "You can't walk up, you've got to drive up. You got a get a DUI to get a taco. I got the munchies and I walked a quarter mile from here. Are you going to help me out or do I have to get arrested to get home? You know what I'm saying?"
911: "Well, we're not going to take you home."
Kimbell: "I want you to call the manager at the Taco Bell."
Kimbell stayed on the phone the for about 11 minutes with dispatch until a police officer arrived and arrested him for misuse of a 911 system.
Kimbell was released from jail on Wednesday.
The website tried contacting Kimbell at his apartment, but the door was not answered. He did tell the dispatcher the reason he called 911 though:
Kimbell: "When I get refused service for no reason, it T's me off. So, I call you guys. Does that make sense?"
A Largo police Lt. said when someone calls 911 for a reason that's not an emergency, they're tying up resources for those who truly are having an emergency.
"Certainly calling 911 because you didn't get your tacos is not something that would constitute an emergency," the Lt. said.
A Taco Bell manager said they don't allow customers to walk in their drive-thru for safety reasons.
The fast food company does not want customers to get run over. The manager also said people on foot pose an increased robbery risk to employees.
Have you or someone you loved been arrested for a DUI or a criminal charge? Then contact the law offices of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. to speak with an experienced Pinellas criminal defense lawyer now!
Our office is located at 4707 140th ave. N, Suite 107, Clearwater, FL 33762, across from the criminal courthouse and minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg. You can contact your St. Petersburg criminal defense attorney by phone at 727.286.6141 or online at info@BlakeDorstenLaw.com.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - Bucs Marijuana Bust!
By Nick Dorsten, Esq.
It should not be a surprise after the multiple arrests from the Tampa Bay Bucs football team (also see here, here, and here) but here is another one from the st. pete times website...
TAMPA — Arcilla Alexander Magee, a defensive end with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was cited for marijuana possession at a traffic stop Monday afternoon.
At about 1:15 p.m., an officer pulled over Magee's 2009 black Dodge Charger at Kennedy Boulevard and Nebraska Avenue for having an expired tag, according to the Tampa Police Department.
While talking to Magee, the officer smelled marijuana, searched the car and found a small amount of the drug.
Magee, 24, was arrested on charges of possession of marijuana and driving with an expired tag. Because the amount of marijuana warranted only a misdemeanor charge, the officer issued Magee a citation and a court date and let him go.
If it feels like you've seen this headline before, that's because you have.
Yes, another Tampa Bay Buccaneer was arrested on Monday. This time, it was defensive end Alex Magee, who was cited by Tampa police after an officer allegedly found a small amount of marijauna in Magee's car during a traffic stop.
Not to get preachy here, because this is far from the most egregious offense an NFL player has been accused of. But what's important here is the context. The Bucs are under tremendous pressure to erase the appearance that theirs is a team with a discipline problem.
The questions are more than fair. This is the fourth member of the organization arrested since March, beginning with pro scouting coordinator Shelton Quarles (DUI), cornerback Aqib Talib (aggravated assault with a deadly weapon) and coaching assistant Jay Kaiser (DUI). Combined with a series of arrests and troubles last year that include the felony drug arrest of former tight end Jerramy Stevens and the one-year drug suspension of safety Tanard Jackson, and it's not hard to see where the reputation comes from.
The point is, this was a very bad time for Magee -- a promising but still marginal player -- to have this happen. To say that people associated with the franchise are going to be on a short leashes probably goes without saying. Will Magee be cut once the lockout is lifted and NFL teams can resume making roster moves? Well, that's far from a given.
But don't be surprised if the Bucs, at some point, start cracking down in a more public fashion. They know fans are watching. And, more important, so is commissioner Roger Goodell.
Have you or a loved one been arrested for marijuana possession or DUI and are in need of a criminal defense lawyer? Then call the law offices of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email info@BlakeDorstenLaw.com for a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney.
We are located at 4707 140th Ave N, Suite 104, Clearwater, FL 33762, off 275, minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - Man crashes into police car while drunk...
By Nicholas Dorsten, Esq.
From the Bay News9 website, what NOT to crash into while you have been drinking and driving (note: joking aside, drinking and driving do NOT mix)!
PINELLAS--
A Tampa man was arrested on DUI charges after crashing into a Pinellas County deputy's cruiser just after midnight on Saturday morning.
The DUI suspect collided with the cruise at Forest Lakes Blvd. and Pine Ave., according to the report.
The Deputy had just pulled a different driver over and they were both completely off the roadway on the eastbound shoulder of Forest Lakes Boulevard.
Officials said the deputy, who was operating a fully-marked 2007 Chevy Impala Sheriff's cruiser, had his emergency lights activated and was positioned behind the motorist he had stopped.
According to the report, the deputy was out of his vehicle, and had just walked back to his cruiser after speaking to the driver of the car he had pulled over when a Ford Mustang driven by the defendant, approached from behind at a substantial speed and rear ended the Deputy's marked cruiser.
The Deputy was struck by the cruiser door after the impact which caused minor scrapes and bruising to his arms.
He was taken to a local hospital where it was determined he suffered a fracture to the right arm.
No other injuries were reported.
Both the Mustang and the Sheriff's cruiser sustained heavy damage.
The airbags in the Mustang were immediately deployed upon impact and the drunk driving suspect was uninjured.
During the crash investigation it was found he had been drinking. He failed sobriety tests and was administered a breath test which determined his blood alcohol content was .106, which is over the legal limit of .08.
The man was arrested for Driving Under The Influence, Driving Under The Influence With Property Damage, and Driving Under The Influence With Injuries.
While DUIs
are not a laughing matter, I put this under humor as noone (especially the deputy) was injured and you know that this was the deputy's easiest arrest of the night!
Have you or someone you loved been arrested for a DUI charge? Then contact the law offices of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. to speak with an experienced Pinellas criminal defense lawyer now!
Our office is located at 4707 140th ave. N, Suite 107, Clearwater, FL 33762, across from the criminal courthouse and minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg. You can contact your St. Petersburg criminal defense attorney by phone at 727.286.6141 or online at info@BlakeDorstenLaw.com.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - more DUI
By Nick Dorsten, Esq.
Another day, another DUI bust, courtesy of the St. Pete Times website...
PINELLAS — A Clearwater man is accused of driving under the influence after his vehicle rear-ended a Pinellas County deputy's cruiser on U.S. 19 on Tuesday afternoon.
The Defendant, 40, faces charges of DUI, DUI with personal injury, DUI with property damage and felony possession of a controlled substance. He was being held early Wednesday at the Pinellas County Jail in lieu of $3,500 bail.
Deputies said the man struck a 28-year-old Deputy's cruiser on U.S. 19 just south of Highlands Boulevard about 3:50 p.m. The Deputy, a five-year veteran, was not seriously injured.
The Deputy had just left the traffic light at Nebraska Avenue and was heading north on U.S. 19. The defendant's vehicle was also at the light, came up behind the deputy through traffic, made a couple of lane changes, got behind the cruiser and rear-ended it.
The suspect was not injured.
Deputies said he failed field sobriety tests and had oxycodone.
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a Clearwater Criminal Defense lawyer or Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Another day, another DUI bust, courtesy of the St. Pete Times website...
PINELLAS — A Clearwater man is accused of driving under the influence after his vehicle rear-ended a Pinellas County deputy's cruiser on U.S. 19 on Tuesday afternoon.
The Defendant, 40, faces charges of DUI, DUI with personal injury, DUI with property damage and felony possession of a controlled substance. He was being held early Wednesday at the Pinellas County Jail in lieu of $3,500 bail.
Deputies said the man struck a 28-year-old Deputy's cruiser on U.S. 19 just south of Highlands Boulevard about 3:50 p.m. The Deputy, a five-year veteran, was not seriously injured.
The Deputy had just left the traffic light at Nebraska Avenue and was heading north on U.S. 19. The defendant's vehicle was also at the light, came up behind the deputy through traffic, made a couple of lane changes, got behind the cruiser and rear-ended it.
The suspect was not injured.
Deputies said he failed field sobriety tests and had oxycodone.
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a Clearwater Criminal Defense lawyer or Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - more Bucs Part ??
By Nick Dorsten, Esq.
You think in the off season, it would be quiet but hot on the heels of past Tampa Bay Buc arrests previously talked about ( here, here, here and here), now courtesy of the St. Pete Times website even more Bucs in trouble!
TAMPA — Shelton Quarles, the Bucs' pro scouting coordinator and a former Pro Bowl linebacker with the team, was arrested on a DUI charge early Friday.
Police arrested Quarles, 39, about 2:30 a.m. on Interstate 275 near Himes Avenue. Police saw a black Audi with the headlights off going 79 mph in a 55 mph zone. When they pulled Quarles over, police said, he "had a strong odor of alcohol on his breath and bloodshot eyes."
Quarles showed other signs of impairment during field sobriety tests, police said. He refused to submit to a breath test and was taken to jail without incident. Bail was set at $500.
A member of the Bucs' Super Bowl XXXVII championship team, Quarles played 10 seasons for Tampa Bay from 1997 to 2006.
After his retirement, Quarles was hired as a pro scout. In January, he was promoted to coordinator of pro scouting.
"We are aware of the matter and are reviewing it," Bucs communications director Jonathan Grella said.
If convicted, Quarles could face further discipline from the NFL or the Bucs. Commissioner Roger Goodell has punished players and team administrators for violating the league's personal conduct policy.
Goodell imposed a $100,000 fine and 30-day suspension to Lions president Tom Lewand after his DUI arrest in June.
Quarles always has been known for his charitable efforts in the community. His Impact Foundation helps single-parent families. He recently raised more than $130,000 to benefit the foundation with the Shelton Quarles Celebrity Waiter night. He also hosts a pro-am as part of the PGA Transitions golf tournament in Palm Harbor.
Ex-Bucs TE Stevens arrested after fight
Former Bucs tight end Jerramy Stevens was arrested Thursday night on a felony battery charge involving two bar bouncers in Tampa.
His bail was set at $2,500, and he was released from jail.
Stevens was at Duke's Retired Surfer's Island Bar, 5210 Tyson Ave. W, about 8 p.m. when he became unruly and was asked to leave by bouncers. Police said he refused and punched two of them, William Donald Russell, 23, and Vincent Jordan, 35, who then held Stevens on the ground until officers arrived. Jordan was taken to Tampa General Hospital with a possible broken jaw.
Stevens' attorney released a statement to the St. Petersburg Times that offered a vigorous defense of Stevens and portrayed him as the victim.
The attorney said Stevens had to be treated at a hospital after his release from jail where he "received treatment for multiple broken ribs and extensive bruising to his body and face. Initial medical reports reflect his wounds are defensive in nature," he wrote.
"We are confident that when the dust settles everyone will realize that not only is Mr. Stevens innocent but more importantly the wrong person was arrested," he added.
The Bucs released Stevens, 31, on Oct. 25 after he was arrested on a felony charge of marijuana possession with intent to sell and drug paraphernalia. He has had multiple arrests during his career.
We expect a criminal football team from the Oakland Raiders or the Cincinnati Bengals, not our home town team!
Have you or a loved one been arrested and are in need of a criminal defense lawyer? Then call the law office of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. at (727) 286-6141 for a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney.
You think in the off season, it would be quiet but hot on the heels of past Tampa Bay Buc arrests previously talked about ( here, here, here and here), now courtesy of the St. Pete Times website even more Bucs in trouble!
TAMPA — Shelton Quarles, the Bucs' pro scouting coordinator and a former Pro Bowl linebacker with the team, was arrested on a DUI charge early Friday.
Police arrested Quarles, 39, about 2:30 a.m. on Interstate 275 near Himes Avenue. Police saw a black Audi with the headlights off going 79 mph in a 55 mph zone. When they pulled Quarles over, police said, he "had a strong odor of alcohol on his breath and bloodshot eyes."
Quarles showed other signs of impairment during field sobriety tests, police said. He refused to submit to a breath test and was taken to jail without incident. Bail was set at $500.
A member of the Bucs' Super Bowl XXXVII championship team, Quarles played 10 seasons for Tampa Bay from 1997 to 2006.
After his retirement, Quarles was hired as a pro scout. In January, he was promoted to coordinator of pro scouting.
"We are aware of the matter and are reviewing it," Bucs communications director Jonathan Grella said.
If convicted, Quarles could face further discipline from the NFL or the Bucs. Commissioner Roger Goodell has punished players and team administrators for violating the league's personal conduct policy.
Goodell imposed a $100,000 fine and 30-day suspension to Lions president Tom Lewand after his DUI arrest in June.
Quarles always has been known for his charitable efforts in the community. His Impact Foundation helps single-parent families. He recently raised more than $130,000 to benefit the foundation with the Shelton Quarles Celebrity Waiter night. He also hosts a pro-am as part of the PGA Transitions golf tournament in Palm Harbor.
Ex-Bucs TE Stevens arrested after fight
Former Bucs tight end Jerramy Stevens was arrested Thursday night on a felony battery charge involving two bar bouncers in Tampa.
His bail was set at $2,500, and he was released from jail.
Stevens was at Duke's Retired Surfer's Island Bar, 5210 Tyson Ave. W, about 8 p.m. when he became unruly and was asked to leave by bouncers. Police said he refused and punched two of them, William Donald Russell, 23, and Vincent Jordan, 35, who then held Stevens on the ground until officers arrived. Jordan was taken to Tampa General Hospital with a possible broken jaw.
Stevens' attorney released a statement to the St. Petersburg Times that offered a vigorous defense of Stevens and portrayed him as the victim.
The attorney said Stevens had to be treated at a hospital after his release from jail where he "received treatment for multiple broken ribs and extensive bruising to his body and face. Initial medical reports reflect his wounds are defensive in nature," he wrote.
"We are confident that when the dust settles everyone will realize that not only is Mr. Stevens innocent but more importantly the wrong person was arrested," he added.
The Bucs released Stevens, 31, on Oct. 25 after he was arrested on a felony charge of marijuana possession with intent to sell and drug paraphernalia. He has had multiple arrests during his career.
We expect a criminal football team from the Oakland Raiders or the Cincinnati Bengals, not our home town team!
Have you or a loved one been arrested and are in need of a criminal defense lawyer? Then call the law office of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. at (727) 286-6141 for a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - not smart
By Nick Dorsten, Esq.
A quick example of how NOT to act around law enforcement, courtesy of the St. Petersburg Times...
PASCO — A New Port Richey woman not allowed to buy more wine was arrested early Monday after taking out her frustrations on a Pasco deputy, arrest reports state.
The suspect, 45, pounded on the cruiser window of a deputy, who was typing up reports, just after midnight near the CVS Pharmacy at 2513 U.S. 19, deputies said. Her speech slurring and her breath spiked with alcohol, she complained loudly that the clerks refused to sell her some wine, the Pasco County Sheriff's Office report said.
When the deputy began to roll up his window, the report said, the soon to be arrested lady tried pushing it back down, screaming, "No, you're going to listen to me." She shoved him in the arm twice (Battery on a law enforcement officer) through the open window before tripping and falling on the curb behind her, deputies wrote.
The "lady" eventually walked back to her car, handed over her license, cursed at the deputy and said, "I'm going home."
As a crowd formed to watch, deputies arrested her, who kicked and pushed at them as they placed her in the back of a cruiser, the report said.
The woman was charged with disorderly conduct, resisting an officer with violence, driving under the influence and two counts of battery on an officer. She remains in the Land O'Lakes jail in lieu of $15,250 bail.
Have you or someone you love been arrested for a DUI, disorderly conduct or battery? Then call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today for a free consultation!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense lawyers please contact BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email the lawyers your questions at: info@blakedorstenlaw.com. We are located at 4707 140th Ave N, Suite 104 in Clearwater, across from the criminal courthouse in the airport business center, minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg.
A quick example of how NOT to act around law enforcement, courtesy of the St. Petersburg Times...
PASCO — A New Port Richey woman not allowed to buy more wine was arrested early Monday after taking out her frustrations on a Pasco deputy, arrest reports state.
The suspect, 45, pounded on the cruiser window of a deputy, who was typing up reports, just after midnight near the CVS Pharmacy at 2513 U.S. 19, deputies said. Her speech slurring and her breath spiked with alcohol, she complained loudly that the clerks refused to sell her some wine, the Pasco County Sheriff's Office report said.
When the deputy began to roll up his window, the report said, the soon to be arrested lady tried pushing it back down, screaming, "No, you're going to listen to me." She shoved him in the arm twice (Battery on a law enforcement officer) through the open window before tripping and falling on the curb behind her, deputies wrote.
The "lady" eventually walked back to her car, handed over her license, cursed at the deputy and said, "I'm going home."
As a crowd formed to watch, deputies arrested her, who kicked and pushed at them as they placed her in the back of a cruiser, the report said.
The woman was charged with disorderly conduct, resisting an officer with violence, driving under the influence and two counts of battery on an officer. She remains in the Land O'Lakes jail in lieu of $15,250 bail.
Have you or someone you love been arrested for a DUI, disorderly conduct or battery? Then call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today for a free consultation!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense lawyers please contact BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email the lawyers your questions at: info@blakedorstenlaw.com. We are located at 4707 140th Ave N, Suite 104 in Clearwater, across from the criminal courthouse in the airport business center, minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - DUI bust
By Nick Dorsten, Esq.
From the St. Pete Times website, sometimes you have to know when enough is enough...
SPRING HILL, FL — When a deputy saw a driver weaving between lanes and going off the road in a southbound lane on the Suncoast Parkway Thursday afternoon, he pulled him over and soon discovered the man has a lengthy history of traffic offenses.
The suspect, who has three DUI convictions dating back to 2003 and whose driver's license has been revoked 15 times (driving while license is suspended), now faces several more charges.
The man, 30, of Lutz, told deputies that he had consumed a beer and had taken four pills, including oxycodone and methacarbamol, according to a Hernando County Sheriff's Office report.
The man, who had a set of brass knuckles in his pants pocket (which could land him a carrying a concealed weapon charge), refused to take a breath test, the report states. He was arrested on his fourth DUI charge along with three other related charges. The charges were most likely a refusal to submit to a breath test, DWLSR and a traffic offense.
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a Tampa area criminal defense lawyer or Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
From the St. Pete Times website, sometimes you have to know when enough is enough...
SPRING HILL, FL — When a deputy saw a driver weaving between lanes and going off the road in a southbound lane on the Suncoast Parkway Thursday afternoon, he pulled him over and soon discovered the man has a lengthy history of traffic offenses.
The suspect, who has three DUI convictions dating back to 2003 and whose driver's license has been revoked 15 times (driving while license is suspended), now faces several more charges.
The man, 30, of Lutz, told deputies that he had consumed a beer and had taken four pills, including oxycodone and methacarbamol, according to a Hernando County Sheriff's Office report.
The man, who had a set of brass knuckles in his pants pocket (which could land him a carrying a concealed weapon charge), refused to take a breath test, the report states. He was arrested on his fourth DUI charge along with three other related charges. The charges were most likely a refusal to submit to a breath test, DWLSR and a traffic offense.
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a Tampa area criminal defense lawyer or Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - Bucs charged again
By Nicholas Dorsten, Esq.
In what is becoming an embarassing problem, the hometown Tampa Bay Bucs added to their string of arrests with yet one more, article courtesy of the St. Pete times
TAMPA — Former Bucs quarterback Shaun King was arrested early Sunday on a DUI charge.
King, 33, of St. Petersburg, was stopped at 2:12 a.m. on U.S. 301 and Holland Road in southern Hillsborough County, according to jail records. He refused to take a blood-alcohol test. He was released about 10 a.m. Sunday after posting $500 bail.
King played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 1999 to 2003. He later was an analyst for ESPN and more recently was hired as an analyst for Bright House Sports Network and co-host of an afternoon show on WQYK-AM 1010.
King appeared Monday as usual on his weekday radio show. He addressed the issue briefly at the top of the show, mostly thanking those who have called him with support.
"As most of you know, I was involved in a very unfortunate circumstance over the weekend,'' King told listeners. "I can't comment on it, but I definitely appreciate the support.''
As shown above, this is just the most recent of arrest for former or current Bucs players. Previous Bucs have been arrested for drug possession, DUI, disorderly conduct and assorted other charges.
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense lawyer or Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - DUI stops
By Nicholas Dorsten, Esq.
Unlike previous posts regarding dwi or dui, I found this article on the Drudge Report, an interesting debate on freedoms vs. security. Article courtesy of 10 news...
Tampa, Florida-- With New Year's Eve only days away, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration expects this to be one of the deadliest weeks of the year on the roads.
But now a new weapon is being used in the fight against drunk driving.
It's a change that could make you more likely to be convicted.
"I think it's a great deterrent for people," said a spokesperson from Mother's Against Drunk Driving in Hillsborough County.
Florida is among several states now holding what are called "no refusal" checkpoints.
It means if you refuse a breath test during a traffic stop, a judge is on site, and issues a warrant that allows police to perform a mandatory blood test.
It's already being done in several counties, and now M.A.D.D. is working to bring it to the Tampa Bay area.
"I think you'll see the difference because people will not drink and drive. I truly believe that," she said.
Not everyone is on board, though.
A DUI defense attorney sees the mandatory blood test as a violation of constitutional rights.
"It's a slippery slope and it's got to stop somewhere," the man explained, "what other misdemeanor offense do we have in the United States where the government can forcefully put a needle into your arm?"
The federal government says Florida has among the highest rates of breathalyzer refusal.
"Now you've got attorneys telling their clients, don't blow, don't blow! Because we know from the results from these machines that they're not operating as the state or the government says they're supposed to operate," said another man, a DUI consultant and expert witness.
Supporters, though, say you could see the "no refusal" checkpoints in the Bay area by October.
"We don't want to violate people's civil rights. That's the last thing we want to do, but we're here to save lives," M.A.D.D. said.
She adds that this type of checkpoint would be heavily advertised, with the goal of deterring any drunk driving.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has recently said he wants to see more states hold similar programs.
Come October, we may be seeing such sheckpoints in St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Tampa. Is this legitimate or is this unconstituional?
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense lawyer or Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Monday, December 13, 2010
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - another DUI
By Nicholas Dorsten, Esq.
Another day, another St. Petersburg DUI to report. While these types of stories aren't new (See here and here for instance, when is enough enough? Courtesy of Tampa Bay online
ST. PETERSBURG, FL - A 22-year-old woman was driving drunk when she set in motion a three-car automobile crash that left an 81-year-old motorist with a broken neck and back, authorities said.
The drunk driver also had her 2-year-old daughter with her in the 2003 Mercury Marquis.
The defendant was charged with drunken driving-serious bodily injury, child abuse, driving with a suspended or revoked license in a wreck causing injury, and refusing to submit to a breath test. She was being held today at the Pinellas County Jail on $15,150 bail.
It's the fourth time the St. Petersburg, Florida woman has faced DUI charges, authorities said.
In Thursday's wreck, she also was cited with careless driving and for not wearing a seatbelt, said St. Petersburg police spokesman Mike Puetz.
The defendant was driving west on 22nd Avenue about 3:20 p.m. when her car struck a curb before hitting a Nissan that was stopped at 42nd Street and then striking a Honda on 22nd Avenue, Puetz said.
The Honda's driver, Hyacinth Capehart of St. Petersburg, suffered a broken neck and back.
Two people in the Nissan were treated at Bayfront Medical Center and released, Puetz said.
Neither the defendant nor her daughter was injured. The child was released to her grandmother.
Authorities found a half bottle of Skol vodka and two empty Budweiser beer bottles in her car, Puetz said.
According to court records, the defendant was charged with drunken driving in June 2006. Puetz said the charge was reduced to reckless driving before she pleaded no contest and was found guilty.
Puetz said the defendant was found guilty of drunken driving in a November 2006 wreck and also in a January 2007 case.
The three cases were bundled together and in April 2008 she was ordered into an alcohol treatment center for 30 days. She was also sentenced to a work release program and her license was revoked for five years, according to state records
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense lawyer or Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Another day, another St. Petersburg DUI to report. While these types of stories aren't new (See here and here for instance, when is enough enough? Courtesy of Tampa Bay online
ST. PETERSBURG, FL - A 22-year-old woman was driving drunk when she set in motion a three-car automobile crash that left an 81-year-old motorist with a broken neck and back, authorities said.
The drunk driver also had her 2-year-old daughter with her in the 2003 Mercury Marquis.
The defendant was charged with drunken driving-serious bodily injury, child abuse, driving with a suspended or revoked license in a wreck causing injury, and refusing to submit to a breath test. She was being held today at the Pinellas County Jail on $15,150 bail.
It's the fourth time the St. Petersburg, Florida woman has faced DUI charges, authorities said.
In Thursday's wreck, she also was cited with careless driving and for not wearing a seatbelt, said St. Petersburg police spokesman Mike Puetz.
The defendant was driving west on 22nd Avenue about 3:20 p.m. when her car struck a curb before hitting a Nissan that was stopped at 42nd Street and then striking a Honda on 22nd Avenue, Puetz said.
The Honda's driver, Hyacinth Capehart of St. Petersburg, suffered a broken neck and back.
Two people in the Nissan were treated at Bayfront Medical Center and released, Puetz said.
Neither the defendant nor her daughter was injured. The child was released to her grandmother.
Authorities found a half bottle of Skol vodka and two empty Budweiser beer bottles in her car, Puetz said.
According to court records, the defendant was charged with drunken driving in June 2006. Puetz said the charge was reduced to reckless driving before she pleaded no contest and was found guilty.
Puetz said the defendant was found guilty of drunken driving in a November 2006 wreck and also in a January 2007 case.
The three cases were bundled together and in April 2008 she was ordered into an alcohol treatment center for 30 days. She was also sentenced to a work release program and her license was revoked for five years, according to state records
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense lawyer or Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Friday, November 19, 2010
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - another celebrity DUI
By Nicholas Dorsten, Esq.
Hopefully this won't become a pattern but not even a month after a Tampa Bay Buccaneer was arrested for drug possession, another player got arrested for drinking and driving according to an article in the St. Pete Times website.
TAMPA — Tampa Bay Buccaneers standout rookie wide receiver Mike Williams was arrested on a DUI charge early Friday.
Williams, 23, was arrested about 2:48 a.m. near U.S. 301 and Causeway Boulevard, according to jail records. He was booked at 4:44 a.m. and released at 8:04 a.m. after posting $500 bail.
Williams was driving a black Cadillac 57 mph in a 45 mph zone and weaving between lanes, said the Hillsborough County sheriff's spokesman.
Two Breathalyzer tests found his blood-alcohol level at .065 and .061, records show, below the limit of .08 at which the state presumes impairment.
But Williams failed a field sobriety test, smelled of alcohol and appeared to have glassy eyes per the reports. A urine test was conducted and results are pending, he said. A urine test is done if a deputy suspects a driver is impaired by a substance other than alcohol.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers officials said Williams will travel to San Francisco Friday with the team and play in Sunday's game against the 49ers.
Head coach Raheem Morris said the decision to let Williams play was tough.
"I'm very disappointed about the bad decision that he made to be out late and about the worse decision he made to drink and drive," Morris said Friday. "I was very pleased with his ability to be cooperative and not be disrespectful and make this thing even worse than it could be.
"It happens. It hurts our fans. It hurts our team. It hurts everybody on this football team. But Mike Williams not playing this weekend would hurt the fans more."
Officials aren't saying what impact the charge will have on Williams for the rest of the season.
"Right now we have a young team that's trying to search for the longevity," Morris said. "If he wants to be a part of that longevity, he certainly has to clean up his act."
With blood-alcohol results below .08, a case against Williams could be tough to prosecute, said a Tampa DUI defense attorney who is not connected to the Williams case. Urine test results are typically not a strong indicator of whatis in a driver's system at the time of the arrest. And the test results often take four months or longer to obtain. Often, a DUI defense attorney will ask for a speedy trial within 90 days, which is not enough time for a prosecutor to get the results.
The field sobriety test is a tool for law enforcement to use to determine if someone's normal faculties are impaired, but it's also not a strong enough indicator to prosecute someone, the lawyer said.
"I've never seen anyone pass the field sobriety exercises,".
Williams leads all rookies in receiving yards, ranks second among rookies in receiving touchdowns and has started all nine games this year for the Bucs. He has 40 receptions this season for 627 yards and five touchdowns. He averages 15.7 yards per catch. His longest reception this season was 58 yards.
His best game this season was against the Arizona Cardinals on Oct. 31 when he nabbed four catches for 105 yards and a touchdown.
The Bucs are 6-3 this year and tied for second place in the NFC South, one game behind the Atlanta Falcons.
The Buccaneers picked Williams in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL draft. He missed all of the 2008 season at Syracuse University after he was caught cheating on a test.
He missed part of the 2009 season after he was involved as a passenger in a car crash. Although the driver in the other car was faulted, Williams was suspended for violating curfew. It was the second curfew violation for Williams, and he left the team with five games left. He later said he left because of miscommunication with his coach.
Williams is the second Bucs player to run afoul of the law this season. The Bucs ended TE Jerramy Stevens' controversial tenure with the team Oct. 25, releasing the veteran two days after he was arrested on two felony marijuana possession charges.
Bucs' safety Tanard Jackson was suspended indefinitely by the NFL on Sept. 22 for violating its substance-abuse policy. He is not eligible for reinstatement until Sept. 22, 2011.
Cornerback Aqib Talib was suspended for the season opener for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, stemming from a 2009 arrest. Talib was arrested in St. Petersburg, Florida in August 2009 and charged with punching a cab driver while en route to the team hotel in Tampa. The case was not adjudicated until April.
A common misconception when dealing with DUI cases is the myth that police will let you go if your breath alcohol level is below a .08. In reality, Florida law presumes you are guilty of DUI if you are .08 or above. If you are in the .061-.065 range like Mike Williams that tends to neither prove or disprove the state of his impairment. Rather, the jury is supposed to take into account ALL the factors such as demeanor, driving pattern, field sobriety results, etc.
This article mentioned that his urine was tested for drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine or prescription medication. If he did have drugs in his system, depending on the amount and type, the state attorney may try and argue that the alcohol combined with the drugs resulted in a synergistic affect. In other words, the alcohol mixed with the drugs made him under the influence due to the two substances combining.
Have you or a loved one been arrested for a drug charge or a DUI? Then contact the Clearwater criminal defense attorneys of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. for a free consultation!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced Clearwater criminal defense lawyers please contact BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email the lawyers your questions at: info@blakedorstenlaw.com. We are located at 4707 140th Ave N, Suite 104 in Clearwater, across from the criminal courthouse in the airport business center, minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg.
Hopefully this won't become a pattern but not even a month after a Tampa Bay Buccaneer was arrested for drug possession, another player got arrested for drinking and driving according to an article in the St. Pete Times website.
TAMPA — Tampa Bay Buccaneers standout rookie wide receiver Mike Williams was arrested on a DUI charge early Friday.
Williams, 23, was arrested about 2:48 a.m. near U.S. 301 and Causeway Boulevard, according to jail records. He was booked at 4:44 a.m. and released at 8:04 a.m. after posting $500 bail.
Williams was driving a black Cadillac 57 mph in a 45 mph zone and weaving between lanes, said the Hillsborough County sheriff's spokesman.
Two Breathalyzer tests found his blood-alcohol level at .065 and .061, records show, below the limit of .08 at which the state presumes impairment.
But Williams failed a field sobriety test, smelled of alcohol and appeared to have glassy eyes per the reports. A urine test was conducted and results are pending, he said. A urine test is done if a deputy suspects a driver is impaired by a substance other than alcohol.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers officials said Williams will travel to San Francisco Friday with the team and play in Sunday's game against the 49ers.
Head coach Raheem Morris said the decision to let Williams play was tough.
"I'm very disappointed about the bad decision that he made to be out late and about the worse decision he made to drink and drive," Morris said Friday. "I was very pleased with his ability to be cooperative and not be disrespectful and make this thing even worse than it could be.
"It happens. It hurts our fans. It hurts our team. It hurts everybody on this football team. But Mike Williams not playing this weekend would hurt the fans more."
Officials aren't saying what impact the charge will have on Williams for the rest of the season.
"Right now we have a young team that's trying to search for the longevity," Morris said. "If he wants to be a part of that longevity, he certainly has to clean up his act."
With blood-alcohol results below .08, a case against Williams could be tough to prosecute, said a Tampa DUI defense attorney who is not connected to the Williams case. Urine test results are typically not a strong indicator of whatis in a driver's system at the time of the arrest. And the test results often take four months or longer to obtain. Often, a DUI defense attorney will ask for a speedy trial within 90 days, which is not enough time for a prosecutor to get the results.
The field sobriety test is a tool for law enforcement to use to determine if someone's normal faculties are impaired, but it's also not a strong enough indicator to prosecute someone, the lawyer said.
"I've never seen anyone pass the field sobriety exercises,".
Williams leads all rookies in receiving yards, ranks second among rookies in receiving touchdowns and has started all nine games this year for the Bucs. He has 40 receptions this season for 627 yards and five touchdowns. He averages 15.7 yards per catch. His longest reception this season was 58 yards.
His best game this season was against the Arizona Cardinals on Oct. 31 when he nabbed four catches for 105 yards and a touchdown.
The Bucs are 6-3 this year and tied for second place in the NFC South, one game behind the Atlanta Falcons.
The Buccaneers picked Williams in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL draft. He missed all of the 2008 season at Syracuse University after he was caught cheating on a test.
He missed part of the 2009 season after he was involved as a passenger in a car crash. Although the driver in the other car was faulted, Williams was suspended for violating curfew. It was the second curfew violation for Williams, and he left the team with five games left. He later said he left because of miscommunication with his coach.
Williams is the second Bucs player to run afoul of the law this season. The Bucs ended TE Jerramy Stevens' controversial tenure with the team Oct. 25, releasing the veteran two days after he was arrested on two felony marijuana possession charges.
Bucs' safety Tanard Jackson was suspended indefinitely by the NFL on Sept. 22 for violating its substance-abuse policy. He is not eligible for reinstatement until Sept. 22, 2011.
Cornerback Aqib Talib was suspended for the season opener for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, stemming from a 2009 arrest. Talib was arrested in St. Petersburg, Florida in August 2009 and charged with punching a cab driver while en route to the team hotel in Tampa. The case was not adjudicated until April.
A common misconception when dealing with DUI cases is the myth that police will let you go if your breath alcohol level is below a .08. In reality, Florida law presumes you are guilty of DUI if you are .08 or above. If you are in the .061-.065 range like Mike Williams that tends to neither prove or disprove the state of his impairment. Rather, the jury is supposed to take into account ALL the factors such as demeanor, driving pattern, field sobriety results, etc.
This article mentioned that his urine was tested for drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine or prescription medication. If he did have drugs in his system, depending on the amount and type, the state attorney may try and argue that the alcohol combined with the drugs resulted in a synergistic affect. In other words, the alcohol mixed with the drugs made him under the influence due to the two substances combining.
Have you or a loved one been arrested for a drug charge or a DUI? Then contact the Clearwater criminal defense attorneys of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. for a free consultation!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced Clearwater criminal defense lawyers please contact BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email the lawyers your questions at: info@blakedorstenlaw.com. We are located at 4707 140th Ave N, Suite 104 in Clearwater, across from the criminal courthouse in the airport business center, minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer - DUI homicide
By Nicholas Dorsten, esq.
While DUI or "driving under the influence" gets written about quite often (see here or here for instance), this article I found in the St. Pete Times really brings home the human cost that drinking and driving may cause...
LARGO — There will be no trial for the Defendant accused of DUI manslaughter.
The 27-year-old St. Petersburg, Florida man will not get the maximum 50-year sentence for causing a crash that took two young lives. One victim's mother will never get the chance to tell a jury of the pain she's endured.
The judge's decision Monday to accept a plea agreement in the case was too much for the victim's mother, who lost her only son in the June crash the dui driver caused.
"I can't,'' she wailed and rushed from the packed courtroom after Circuit Judge Chris Helinger said she intended to allow the Defendant to plead guilty to two vehicular manslaughter charges.
For several minutes, the mother's agonized cries from the hallway accompanied the hearing that continued in a courtroom at the Criminal Justice Center.
She was not in the courtroom when Helinger formally accepted the plea and sentenced the defendant to 20 years in prison. He also pleaded guilty to driving without a valid license, driving under the influence and possession of a controlled substance. His driving privileges will be permanently revoked.
The defendant, who will turn 28 next week, was high on prescription pain medication and was traveling about 70 mph in a 45 mph construction zone when he slammed into several cars on U.S. 19 in Clearwater on June 19.
The eight-car pileup killed two people, a 22-year-old and a 23-year-old both of Odessa. Several other people were injured.
The defendant originally told investigators he was a passenger, and not the driver, of the Chevy Avalanche that caused the crash. He was arrested five days later, after the Chevy's vehicle data recorder indicated that the passenger seat was unoccupied at the time of the wreck.
At Monday's hearing, the defendant told the judge he has been depressed since the accident and has "episodes where I cry uncontrollably."
The victim's mother said the defendant had a chance at a pretrial hearing last week to apologize for killing her son.
"You could have apologized to me last week, but you didn't. You're only looking out for your best interest," she said.
She referred to his record as a habitual traffic offender and urged Helinger to give him more time "so we can have safer streets."
Like the mother, prosecutors wanted the defendant to serve more than 20 years.
But Helinger said she found the plea agreement "reasonable" and said she hoped it would offer "an early resolution" to the case.
Helinger acknowledged that the victims' families were not happy with her verdict.
"There is no amount of years which can bring back your boy," she told amother, who remained in the courtroom.
"My only hope for the families is at least you can start processing your grief."
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense lawyer or Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
While DUI or "driving under the influence" gets written about quite often (see here or here for instance), this article I found in the St. Pete Times really brings home the human cost that drinking and driving may cause...
LARGO — There will be no trial for the Defendant accused of DUI manslaughter.
The 27-year-old St. Petersburg, Florida man will not get the maximum 50-year sentence for causing a crash that took two young lives. One victim's mother will never get the chance to tell a jury of the pain she's endured.
The judge's decision Monday to accept a plea agreement in the case was too much for the victim's mother, who lost her only son in the June crash the dui driver caused.
"I can't,'' she wailed and rushed from the packed courtroom after Circuit Judge Chris Helinger said she intended to allow the Defendant to plead guilty to two vehicular manslaughter charges.
For several minutes, the mother's agonized cries from the hallway accompanied the hearing that continued in a courtroom at the Criminal Justice Center.
She was not in the courtroom when Helinger formally accepted the plea and sentenced the defendant to 20 years in prison. He also pleaded guilty to driving without a valid license, driving under the influence and possession of a controlled substance. His driving privileges will be permanently revoked.
The defendant, who will turn 28 next week, was high on prescription pain medication and was traveling about 70 mph in a 45 mph construction zone when he slammed into several cars on U.S. 19 in Clearwater on June 19.
The eight-car pileup killed two people, a 22-year-old and a 23-year-old both of Odessa. Several other people were injured.
The defendant originally told investigators he was a passenger, and not the driver, of the Chevy Avalanche that caused the crash. He was arrested five days later, after the Chevy's vehicle data recorder indicated that the passenger seat was unoccupied at the time of the wreck.
At Monday's hearing, the defendant told the judge he has been depressed since the accident and has "episodes where I cry uncontrollably."
The victim's mother said the defendant had a chance at a pretrial hearing last week to apologize for killing her son.
"You could have apologized to me last week, but you didn't. You're only looking out for your best interest," she said.
She referred to his record as a habitual traffic offender and urged Helinger to give him more time "so we can have safer streets."
Like the mother, prosecutors wanted the defendant to serve more than 20 years.
But Helinger said she found the plea agreement "reasonable" and said she hoped it would offer "an early resolution" to the case.
Helinger acknowledged that the victims' families were not happy with her verdict.
"There is no amount of years which can bring back your boy," she told amother, who remained in the courtroom.
"My only hope for the families is at least you can start processing your grief."
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense lawyer or Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Lawyer : DUI no laughing matter
By Nicholas Dorsten, Esq.
A humorous article in the St. Petersburg Times that shows while honesty is a virtue, it may not get you out of a drunk driving charge!
TAMPA — A motorist who told a deputy he shouldn't be driving in his condition — but did anyway — was charged with drunken driving Wednesday, records show.
A sheriff's report shows that blood-alcohol levels of the drunk driver, 49, registered .372 and .382 percent — more than four times the legal limit in Florida of .08.
A deputy saw the DUI driver behind the wheel of a 2010 silver Toyota swerving and braking near Bearrs Avenue and Smitter Road around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday.
The arrest report says the Tampa DUI defendant, after being read his rights, said he had consumed eight 16-ounce cans of beer that day.
The deputy wrote that the Tampa drunk driving defendant, could barely keep his eyes open and had to sit several times during questioning.
Jail records shows he was being held in Hillsborough County jail late Thursday on $500 bail.
What can happen to this defendant if he doesn't get an expereienced DUI defense attorney? Well for starters, he will have only 10 days to apply for a temporary drivers permit, if he doesn't, then he can be arrested for driving while license suspended if he gets behind the wheel. An experienced DWI defense lawyer will be able to help the accused get through the complicated DUI system and navigate through the potential mindfields.
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense lawyer or Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
A humorous article in the St. Petersburg Times that shows while honesty is a virtue, it may not get you out of a drunk driving charge!
TAMPA — A motorist who told a deputy he shouldn't be driving in his condition — but did anyway — was charged with drunken driving Wednesday, records show.
A sheriff's report shows that blood-alcohol levels of the drunk driver, 49, registered .372 and .382 percent — more than four times the legal limit in Florida of .08.
A deputy saw the DUI driver behind the wheel of a 2010 silver Toyota swerving and braking near Bearrs Avenue and Smitter Road around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday.
The arrest report says the Tampa DUI defendant, after being read his rights, said he had consumed eight 16-ounce cans of beer that day.
The deputy wrote that the Tampa drunk driving defendant, could barely keep his eyes open and had to sit several times during questioning.
Jail records shows he was being held in Hillsborough County jail late Thursday on $500 bail.
What can happen to this defendant if he doesn't get an expereienced DUI defense attorney? Well for starters, he will have only 10 days to apply for a temporary drivers permit, if he doesn't, then he can be arrested for driving while license suspended if he gets behind the wheel. An experienced DWI defense lawyer will be able to help the accused get through the complicated DUI system and navigate through the potential mindfields.
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense lawyer or Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Clearwater Defense Lawyer: A senseless DUI in St. Petersburg, Florida
By Nicholas Dorsten, esq.
An article in todays St. Petersburg Times is another reminder of how common St. Petersburg drunk driving is....
ST. PETERSBURG, Fl — The driver of a sport utility vehicle is charged with DUI manslaughter after running a stop sign and colliding with a motorcyclist early Sunday morning, police said.
The victim, who was 24 and lived in St. Petersburg, Fl was declared dead at the scene, the intersection of 34th Avenue and 34th Street N.
Police said the driver of the Mercedes SUV, the defendant, charged with a DUI of St. Petersburg was driving east on 34th Avenue when he ran the stop sign at 34th Street around 2:30 a.m. Cecez is in the Pinellas County Jail with no bond.
He ran into the victim's Kawasaki, which was going south on 34th Street. The victim of the DUI manslaughter, who police said was not wearing a helmet, was thrown from the bike.
The defendant was transported to Bayfront Hospital where he was treated for minor injuries.
Police said he was impaired, although did not provide details, and charged him with DUI manslaughter.
I have mentioned the dangers and risks of Driving under the Influence or DUI several times before on this site. Yet this is one crime that people just continue to do...
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense lawyers please contact BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email the lawyers your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com. We are located at 4707 140th Ave N, Suite 104 in Clearwater, across from the criminal courthouse in the airport business center, minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg.
An article in todays St. Petersburg Times is another reminder of how common St. Petersburg drunk driving is....
ST. PETERSBURG, Fl — The driver of a sport utility vehicle is charged with DUI manslaughter after running a stop sign and colliding with a motorcyclist early Sunday morning, police said.
The victim, who was 24 and lived in St. Petersburg, Fl was declared dead at the scene, the intersection of 34th Avenue and 34th Street N.
Police said the driver of the Mercedes SUV, the defendant, charged with a DUI of St. Petersburg was driving east on 34th Avenue when he ran the stop sign at 34th Street around 2:30 a.m. Cecez is in the Pinellas County Jail with no bond.
He ran into the victim's Kawasaki, which was going south on 34th Street. The victim of the DUI manslaughter, who police said was not wearing a helmet, was thrown from the bike.
The defendant was transported to Bayfront Hospital where he was treated for minor injuries.
Police said he was impaired, although did not provide details, and charged him with DUI manslaughter.
I have mentioned the dangers and risks of Driving under the Influence or DUI several times before on this site. Yet this is one crime that people just continue to do...
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense lawyers please contact BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email the lawyers your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com. We are located at 4707 140th Ave N, Suite 104 in Clearwater, across from the criminal courthouse in the airport business center, minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Clearwater Defense Lawyer: Not just a Clearwater DUI problem...
By Nicholas Dorsten, Esq.
Bad news in the world of sports, according to an article in the St. Petersburg times....
In Tampa an assistant coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is accused of driving under the influence.
The man, 32, was arrested about 11:40 p.m. Tuesday near S Moody Avenue and W Swann Avenue, police said.
He had a blood-alcohol level ranging from 0.137 to 0.143, police said. The point at which impairment is presumed in Florida is 0.08.
The Tampa DUI suspect is in his second season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and first as defensive assistant coach, according to the team's website. Previously, he was an assistant offensive line coach last season.
He was released from the Hillsborough County Jail on $500 bail Wednesday morning.
This case is timely because I often have people ask me...what are some differences between a Tampa DUI attorney and a Clearwater DUI lawyer? While there are mostly similarities, there are several differences.
Traditionally, Tampa DUI Lawyers dealing with the Tampa criminal court system, have different challenges. Tampa usually has larger case loads and different organization. As a result a DUI attorney there may have the opportunity to get more dismissals or reductions in the charges.
A Clearwater DUI attorney, has the opposite problem. In Clearwater or St. Petersburg, the case load is just as large but the prosecutors have less discretion in reducing any charges and tend to rely more on guidelines.
While these are basic guidelines and not intended to be specific, know that whether you need a Clearwater DUI Lawyer or a Tampa DUI attorney, you are now hopefully armed with more knowledge.
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense lawyer or a Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Bad news in the world of sports, according to an article in the St. Petersburg times....
In Tampa an assistant coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is accused of driving under the influence.
The man, 32, was arrested about 11:40 p.m. Tuesday near S Moody Avenue and W Swann Avenue, police said.
He had a blood-alcohol level ranging from 0.137 to 0.143, police said. The point at which impairment is presumed in Florida is 0.08.
The Tampa DUI suspect is in his second season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and first as defensive assistant coach, according to the team's website. Previously, he was an assistant offensive line coach last season.
He was released from the Hillsborough County Jail on $500 bail Wednesday morning.
This case is timely because I often have people ask me...what are some differences between a Tampa DUI attorney and a Clearwater DUI lawyer? While there are mostly similarities, there are several differences.
Traditionally, Tampa DUI Lawyers dealing with the Tampa criminal court system, have different challenges. Tampa usually has larger case loads and different organization. As a result a DUI attorney there may have the opportunity to get more dismissals or reductions in the charges.
A Clearwater DUI attorney, has the opposite problem. In Clearwater or St. Petersburg, the case load is just as large but the prosecutors have less discretion in reducing any charges and tend to rely more on guidelines.
While these are basic guidelines and not intended to be specific, know that whether you need a Clearwater DUI Lawyer or a Tampa DUI attorney, you are now hopefully armed with more knowledge.
Have you or someone you loved been charged with a DUI? Do you need the help of a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense lawyer or a Clearwater DUI attorney? Then Call Blake & Dorsten, P.A. today!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Clearwater Defense Lawyer : Fruit flavored alcohol is still alcohol!!
By Nicholas Dorsten, Esq.
A recent article on Tampa Bay online, while sad, sheds some more light on the dangers of drinking and driving, not with beer or liquor, but sugary alcoholic beverages.
The malt beverage Four Loko, which a St. Petersburg man accused of DUI manslaughter, 20, has told officers he drank in addition to consuming liquor and smoking marijuana prior to Sunday's fatal crash that killed four people, is popular with younger people because it combines 12 percent alcohol mixed with caffeine.
The beverage comes in a variety of flavors and has been the subject of controversy because some believe its makers are targeting teens. It is said Four Loko looks like Monster energy drinks,but unlike Monster, it does contain alcohol.
When shown a can of Four Loko in its grape flavor, a St. Petersburg registered dietitian and nutritionist called it "scary stuff." The dietician said the can looks like it appeals to kids.
"It's definitely going to put you on a total high. I mean, we already know what caffeine does to people," the St. Petersburg dietician said. "And so it's going to keep you awake and allow you to keep drinking alcohol because alcohol is a depressant and now it's giving you the caffeine so you can drink more alcohol."
The crash at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street and 22nd Avenue North in St. Petersburg killed a man and his three adult sons. All four victims were listed as being from Orlando.
Besides being charged with DUI manslaughter, the St. Petersburg, Florida defendant was also charged with DUI, possession of marijuana and several traffic citations.
Have you or someone you love been arrested for driving under the influence (dui)? The Clearwater criminal defense firm of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. is hear to fight for you! The Lawyers at Blake & Dorsten, P.A. have handled thousands of criminal cases including DUI, DUI manslaughter and all drug charges including possession of marijuana.
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced Clearwater criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
A recent article on Tampa Bay online, while sad, sheds some more light on the dangers of drinking and driving, not with beer or liquor, but sugary alcoholic beverages.
The malt beverage Four Loko, which a St. Petersburg man accused of DUI manslaughter, 20, has told officers he drank in addition to consuming liquor and smoking marijuana prior to Sunday's fatal crash that killed four people, is popular with younger people because it combines 12 percent alcohol mixed with caffeine.
The beverage comes in a variety of flavors and has been the subject of controversy because some believe its makers are targeting teens. It is said Four Loko looks like Monster energy drinks,but unlike Monster, it does contain alcohol.
When shown a can of Four Loko in its grape flavor, a St. Petersburg registered dietitian and nutritionist called it "scary stuff." The dietician said the can looks like it appeals to kids.
"It's definitely going to put you on a total high. I mean, we already know what caffeine does to people," the St. Petersburg dietician said. "And so it's going to keep you awake and allow you to keep drinking alcohol because alcohol is a depressant and now it's giving you the caffeine so you can drink more alcohol."
The crash at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street and 22nd Avenue North in St. Petersburg killed a man and his three adult sons. All four victims were listed as being from Orlando.
Besides being charged with DUI manslaughter, the St. Petersburg, Florida defendant was also charged with DUI, possession of marijuana and several traffic citations.
Have you or someone you love been arrested for driving under the influence (dui)? The Clearwater criminal defense firm of Blake & Dorsten, P.A. is hear to fight for you! The Lawyers at Blake & Dorsten, P.A. have handled thousands of criminal cases including DUI, DUI manslaughter and all drug charges including possession of marijuana.
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced Clearwater criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email your questions to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Monday, August 23, 2010
Clearwater Defense lawyer : DUI...it can happen to anyone!
By Nicholas J. Dorsten, Esq.
According to an article in The St. Petersburg Times,in CLEARWATER — A nurse at the Pinellas County Jail was arrested late Saturday after an accident and charged with driving under the influence, Police officers said.
The accused, a licensed practical nurse, was also charged with resisting arrest after, police say, she punched an officer and then refused to get out of her vehicle.
According to arrest reports, the Defendant was driving a late model car when she got into an accident with another vehicle around 10:30 p.m. near Countryside Boulevard and Enterprise Road in Clearwater, Florida.
When Clearwater police arrived, the Defendant "reeked of liquor and could barely stand up," an arrest report claims.
The Defendant got back into her car, the report says, then refused to get out or hand over her car keys.
When the officer tried to take the keys from the ignition, the Defendant punched and pushed him in the arms and upper body, then threw the keys at him, according to the report.
The driver of the other vehicle, who was not identified, perhaps suffered "minor injuries," according to the arrest report.
The Defendant of Clearwater, refused to do field sobriety tests or take a Breathalyzer, Clearwater police said.
She has worked for the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office since June 2001.
Investigators from the agency's administrative investigations division were notified of the arrest, per standard procedure. The Defendant was released from the jail after posting bail Sunday morning.
This story goes to show you that Driving Under the Influence or DUI can happen to ANYONE! In the State of Florida, a driver is considered to be "under the influence" if he/she has a breath alcohol level of 0.08 or above or if his normal reactions are impaired. This nurse, a pillar of the Pinellas community, now is facing battery of a law enforcement officer, a DUI charge and now may be facing a Personal Injury lawsuit, all because she made a simple mistake. When you choose to Drink and Drive, even if you only had a few, you must be prepared for the worse case scenarios. You put you job, life, freedom and the life of others at risk!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email the attorneys at: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
According to an article in The St. Petersburg Times,in CLEARWATER — A nurse at the Pinellas County Jail was arrested late Saturday after an accident and charged with driving under the influence, Police officers said.
The accused, a licensed practical nurse, was also charged with resisting arrest after, police say, she punched an officer and then refused to get out of her vehicle.
According to arrest reports, the Defendant was driving a late model car when she got into an accident with another vehicle around 10:30 p.m. near Countryside Boulevard and Enterprise Road in Clearwater, Florida.
When Clearwater police arrived, the Defendant "reeked of liquor and could barely stand up," an arrest report claims.
The Defendant got back into her car, the report says, then refused to get out or hand over her car keys.
When the officer tried to take the keys from the ignition, the Defendant punched and pushed him in the arms and upper body, then threw the keys at him, according to the report.
The driver of the other vehicle, who was not identified, perhaps suffered "minor injuries," according to the arrest report.
The Defendant of Clearwater, refused to do field sobriety tests or take a Breathalyzer, Clearwater police said.
She has worked for the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office since June 2001.
Investigators from the agency's administrative investigations division were notified of the arrest, per standard procedure. The Defendant was released from the jail after posting bail Sunday morning.
This story goes to show you that Driving Under the Influence or DUI can happen to ANYONE! In the State of Florida, a driver is considered to be "under the influence" if he/she has a breath alcohol level of 0.08 or above or if his normal reactions are impaired. This nurse, a pillar of the Pinellas community, now is facing battery of a law enforcement officer, a DUI charge and now may be facing a Personal Injury lawsuit, all because she made a simple mistake. When you choose to Drink and Drive, even if you only had a few, you must be prepared for the worse case scenarios. You put you job, life, freedom and the life of others at risk!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, contact the law firm of BLAKE & DORSTEN, P.A. at 727.286.6141 or email the attorneys at: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Clearwater Defense lawyer : Another DUI tragedy
By Nick Dorsten, Esq.
According to an August 13 article in the St. Petersburg Times, A 28-year-old Clearwater woman is accused of driving drunk when she turned in front of a motorcyclist, causing an accident that killed a man this past July. The driver was arrested and charged with DUI manslaughter. Toxicology tests revealed she had a blood alcohol level of 0.15, nearly twice the limit (.08) at which a driver is presumed impaired in Florida, according to the Clearwater police.
The victim, who resided in Pinellas Park, was pronounced dead at the scene of the July 10 accident on Missouri Avenue.
According to the police, the victim was headed south on Missouri when the suspect, who was northbound, turned in front of him.
She turned herself in at the Pinellas County Jail on Thursday. She was released Thursday night after posting bail. In addition to the DUI manslaughter charge, she was cited for failure to yield to oncoming traffic when making a left turn.
Blake and Dorsten Law handles all criminal cases throughout the Tampa Bay area and select cases statewide. If you or someone you care about has been charged with either a DUI, DUI manslaughter or even a traffic citation, the Tampa Bay area Lawyers at Blake and Dorsten are ready and able to fight for you!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE AND DORSTEN at 727.286.6141 or email your question to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
According to an August 13 article in the St. Petersburg Times, A 28-year-old Clearwater woman is accused of driving drunk when she turned in front of a motorcyclist, causing an accident that killed a man this past July. The driver was arrested and charged with DUI manslaughter. Toxicology tests revealed she had a blood alcohol level of 0.15, nearly twice the limit (.08) at which a driver is presumed impaired in Florida, according to the Clearwater police.
The victim, who resided in Pinellas Park, was pronounced dead at the scene of the July 10 accident on Missouri Avenue.
According to the police, the victim was headed south on Missouri when the suspect, who was northbound, turned in front of him.
She turned herself in at the Pinellas County Jail on Thursday. She was released Thursday night after posting bail. In addition to the DUI manslaughter charge, she was cited for failure to yield to oncoming traffic when making a left turn.
Blake and Dorsten Law handles all criminal cases throughout the Tampa Bay area and select cases statewide. If you or someone you care about has been charged with either a DUI, DUI manslaughter or even a traffic citation, the Tampa Bay area Lawyers at Blake and Dorsten are ready and able to fight for you!
For more information, or to speak directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys, please contact the law firm of BLAKE AND DORSTEN at 727.286.6141 or email your question to: info@blakedorstenlaw.com
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