A Petaluma man was interviewed for an in-depth look at DUI offenders in the Argus-Courier this past week. He tells that only intensive probation and treatment were able to finally crack his own DUI problems, after multiple convictions and penalties. He suggests the same is necessary for others like him.
The man, an admitted alcoholic and six time DUI offender, recommends mandatory education for DUI convictions and multiple reviews and alcohol checks. Ignition interlock devices are said to be highly effective as well. What doesn’t work, he says, is suspending a license or sentences to jail.
He may be on to something as he remarks “When you take licenses away from them, all you end up with is having a bunch of drunks driving around with suspended licenses.” Often a DUI is much deeper than just a wild night out—it’s an indication of a deeper problem. However, as the convictions mount, you are less likely to be recommended to probation and treatment and more likely to serve jail time.
From 2003 to 2009 DUI arrests in Petaluma rose from 335 to 608. It’s hard to say what’s behind the jump but it doesn’t take a genius or a multiple DUI offender to know that another approach should be taken to prevent the DUI incidences in the first place. Seven percent of DUI arrests are said to be from multiple time DUI offenders—a fact that should be looked into.
DUI Treatment Courts are one way in which the law is focusing more on treatment and prevention than punishment, and they seem to be working. These courts combine efforts from the typical courtroom personalities but also feature collaboration with community treatment programs.
Education and treatment in the DUI Treatment courts are seen as central to preventing further DUI law violations. These are an excellent option, though not available in all jurisdictions.
If you are facing charges of DUI, whether it’s your first or your fourth—We can help. Contact our offices today to see if there are DUI Courts in your area and find out what we can do to fight your case.