As an attorney who specializes in DUI defense, I make sure that I am aware of any changes, modifications, or increases in law enforcement, law enforcement policies and laws themselves that affect the state of Ohio. Recently, the law enforcement of Ohio has been added to the countless number of highway safety partners who are supporting the campaign, “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” which aims to implement stricter laws and policies regarding driving while intoxicated and driving under the influence. The heavy patrolling of highways is scheduled to start on August 16 and last throughout the rest of summer.
This period is supposed to have over 7,000 hours of enforcement by law officers in the area and upwards of 900 DWI checkpoints at various locations across the state of Ohio. The Ohio Department of Public Safety Director has said that this time period, late in summer, is when a lot of people are on vacation or traveling, and is when they see an increase in the number of incidents related to DUI/DWI. Law enforcement wants to make it clear that they take these laws very seriously and will not tolerate any violations.
Similarly, officers will not only be on high alert for intoxicated drivers, but will also be extremely vigilant about looking for those who may be carrying illegal drugs on them as well. Just recently these efforts have already made drug seizures for heroin, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
While it is understandable why law enforcement wants to take extra precautions during this time, this inevitably means there will be an increase in issues with accusations and convictions. What if you are pulled over and treated unfairly or taken advantage of? Now is the time to be aware of these upcoming changes but also be aware that if you find yourself being pulled over, you have the resources to help you fight your case. I am a skilled defense lawyer in DUI and have extensive experience defending various types of DUI/DWI and in confident in my abilities to refute and or lessen a conviction. Please see my page for my private practice, located here, for more information.