A Massachusetts Democratic state representative was arrested for OUI on Tuesday after drunk driving. His alcohol level was four times the legal limit. David H.A. LeBoeuf, 32, of Worcester, was charged with operation under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, and a marked lanes violation.
LaBoeuf was likely in session until 9pm that evening and was arrested just an hour and a half later in Quincy after several calls had been made to report erratic driving on Interstate 93. Inside LaBeouf’s SUV were nine empty nip bottles of Dr. McGillicuddy’s liquor and two cans of wine, one half finished and the other empty. His blood alcohol level tested at 0.329 and then 0.317.
What does an OUI/ DUI charge look like in Massachusetts? They are some of the strictest in the country. Melanie’s Law, which was created in 2005, is the reason for this. It’s named after Melanie Powell, who was only 13 when she was hit and killed by someone who had multiple OUI offenses. This law allows a district attorney to have harsher penalties against those facing their second or subsequent OUI. For first-time offenders, there is a possibility of up to two and a half years imprisonment, a fine of $500 to $5,000, or both. You could also be required to take alcohol or substance awareness classes. There is a suspension of one’s license for 45 to 90 days. For each subsequent OUI, the penalties increase, both in terms of jail time and fines.
A third OUI offense is considered a felony, and a fifth offense is a lifetime license ban. After some time, the offender may apply for hardship, and will be required to use an ignition interlock device for the duration of the hardship license. An IID requires one to be sober to start the car ignition and will lock if the driver has alcohol on their breath.
Even if you cause no harm to others or death, a negligent operation or reckless driving charge can still carry criminal consequences. It is imperative to have an experienced lawyer, even if you think you are in the right. There are a number of areas an experienced OUI attorney in Boston can explore in order to defend their client from these serious charges.
PUT OUR EXPERIENCE & KNOWLEDGE IN YOUR CORNER
Attorney Vikas Dhar, is a Boston OUI lawyer with success representing clients charged with drunk driving will investigate the facts and circumstances surrounding your arrest to provide you with all available defenses. Immediate action on your part is important. Call 617 880-6155 or use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation with our experienced OUI attorneys in Boston.
