The Share Christmas and Holiday program in Pearl River was interrupted Friday night by a driver who police say was drunk. Police say the 46-year-old driver maneuvered around barricades and police cars that blocked off the event that was taking place on South Main Street.
Police say that although people were standing in the street, no one was injured. The man has been charged with misdemeanor driving while intoxicated. The officer who pulled the man over said he refused to take a field sobriety test. He also later refused a chemical blood alcohol test.
Police stopped the driver about 40 feet beyond the barricades to the Christmas event. They say he showed signs of intoxication, including bloodshot eyes, slurred speech and unsteadiness when standing. He was arrested at the scene.
Facing drunk driving charges is no laughing matter. Police in the Hudson Valley and elsewhere in New York take drinking and driving very seriously, and those who are accused of such behavior face life-changing consequences. Those consequences can include license suspension, expensive fines and jail in some cases.
Although the consequences can be severe, it’s important that those who are facing drunk driving charges know that they still have rights and options. Not everyone accused of drunk driving is guilty. An experienced DWI attorney can help guide a person accused of drunk driving through the legal process. Understanding your rights and options is the first step toward protecting your freedom.
Source: The Journal News, ” Orangetown cops: Drunk driver crashed Christmas event,” Khurram Saeed, Dec. 8, 2012
