The estimated population of Delaware County has risen to over 550,000. In “Delco” they have significant DUI enforcement activity. Among the 67 counties in the state, the Pennsylvania State Police's Troop K consistently leads the way in terms of DUI arrests. In 2017, they made 622 such arrests—the third highest in the state.
Drunk Driving
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol § 3802: Individuals are prohibited from driving, operating, or otherwise controlling the motion of a vehicle after consuming alcohol in a quantity that impairs safe operation.
Drugged Driving
Across Pennsylvania, the authorities are expanding the training and certification of Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) to detect potential motorist drug usage. Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance § 3802: Individuals are prohibited from driving, operating, or otherwise controlling the motion of a vehicle when their blood contains:
• A Schedule I controlled substance or Schedule II or III controlled substance that is not prescribed by a physician
• Metabolites of scheduled controlled substances
• Multiple drugs that impair safe vehicle operation or a combination of alcohol and a drug that impairs safe vehicle operation
• Under the influence of “solvent or noxious” substances
Arrested for DUI in Delaware County?
Those arrested for operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs may face a host of potential penalties. Attorney Joseph D. Lento understands the overwhelming anxiety associated with a DUI. He has many years of experience in effectively defending these cases.
|
Blood Alcohol Content BAC Levels[1] |
|
|
General Impairment |
.08% - .10% |
|
High Level |
.10% - .16% |
|
Highest Level |
Greater than .16% |
|
For Minors |
.02% |
The state now uses a tiered method of categorizing the level of offenses for driving under the influence of alcohol. The penalties that may be imposed on a motorist progressively increase in severity. For example, first-time offenders at the highest level (.16%) with have their driver's license suspended for a 12-month period. In addition, these offenders are subject to a mandate that requires the installation of an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. The minimum period of incarceration of 72 hours will be imposed as well as a minimum of a $1,000 fine.
Refusal to Submit to Chemical Testing
Those who obtain driving privileges in the state are giving their implied consent to submit to a breath or blood test for the detection of alcohol or drugs. As a consequence, drivers who refuse to submit to testing face suspension of their driving privileges.
Delaware County Court Reporting Network (C.R.N.) Evaluation Requirement
All DUI offenders will have a CRN evaluation to assess their use of alcohol and drugs. The costs associated are the responsibility of the offender.
Delaware County Treatment Court
The County Office of the District Attorney also manages a treatment court program. This involves a “negotiated guilty plea” and entrance into a demanding 30-month alternative sentencing program consisting of five phases.
An Attorney for DUI Defense in Delaware County
Those who are arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs now face harsh penalties. A DUI conviction, even for first-time offenders, may have consequences including jail time, loss of driving privileges, fines, and much more. The Lento Law Firm has a wealth of experience defending those charged with these offenses. Contact the office today at (888) 535-3686 for a consultation.
[1] https://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/LI/CT/HTM/75/00.038..HTM
