The future of a Wappinger Falls teenager could be in serious question after an alleged hit-and-run accident.
Not only is this young man charged with driving while intoxicated in connection with the case. He is also charged with leaving the scene of a property damage accident and fourth-degree criminal mischief.
Perhaps most importantly, he is facing a charge of first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle. That’s a felony. It reportedly stems from the fact that the defendant’s license is under suspension because of a DWI charge still pending in East Fishkill.
With the scope of the charges listed, it’s clear that this young man could face serious consequences if convicted. To explore any and all options, he should be working with an experienced attorney.
According to authorities, the defendant was driving on Route 9D on Jan. 19 when he caused more than $200 worth of damage to some landscaping. The investigation of events led police to the man’s home address where he was located.
Officials say they suspected he was intoxicated and determined by a breath sample that his estimated blood alcohol content was 0.14 percent. He was then placed under arrest.
He has since been arraigned and at last word was being held in Dutchess County Jail. Bail is set at $5,000. His next court appearance is slated for Feb. 6.
Anyone facing drunk driving charges of any kind should take them seriously. Where a repeat offense is involved, as seems to be the case here, conviction can mean increased penalties that could include incarceration. But there could also be longer-term implications that result from having a felony conviction on one’s record. That just reinforces the importance of presenting as strong a defense as possible.
Source: Hudson Valley Reporter, “State Police Charge Two in Separate Wappinger Hit-and-Run Accidents,” Bob Dumas, Jan. 24, 2014
