When a person is arrested for driving under the influence or operating a vehicle while intoxicated in Ohio, there are a litany of potential penalties after a conviction. That may include jail time, fines and a loss of driving privileges. For many, there are ancillary consequences such as the loss of a job or problems getting a job in the future. Considering all the challenges that can negatively impact a person’s life after a DUI or OVI conviction, it is imperative to forge a viable criminal defense strategy from the start. This is especially true for a person in a high-profile job.
Jermiah Braswell, a wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals, was arrested for DUI in Ohio. Mr. Braswell had played football in high school and college in the state and was an undrafted free agent signee by the Cardinals. He crashed his vehicle into Lake Erie at approximately 6:30 p.m. Witnesses said he was speeding at the time and went off an embankment.
When law enforcement got to the scene, Mr. Braswell was still in the driver’s seat and trying to operate the vehicle. He said he was unaware as to how he got there. Officers communicated with him and said he was slurring his words. He took field sobriety tests and a breath test. He was subsequently arrested. He refused a chemical test. Following news of the arrest, the Cardinals released him.
As this case indicates, a DUI charge can have far-reaching implications in a person’s life. Not only does Mr. Braswell find himself arrested on several charges, but he also lost a current opportunity to play in the National Football League. While it is certainly possible for a person to rehabilitate his or her life after an arrest, the penalties for a conviction can impede their goals for the present and future. Therefore, it is wise to consider the various options for a defense.
Perhaps there is a reasonable explanation for what occurred. He may be able to secure a plea agreement. Or the evidence could be such that might be acquitted. For this man and others in a similar situation, crafting a strong criminal defense is crucial from the start and a legal firm experienced in DUI may be able to help.