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Prior DWI convictions may complicate future defense in New York

On Behalf of | Mar 27, 2017 | DWI |

A record of previous related convictions may complicate matters for individuals facing new charges. For example, a New York man was recently charged with DWAI Drugs when a police search supposedly revealed a prior DWI conviction. Following what was supposed to be a traffic stop, the man was placed under arrest for this class E felony.

New York State Police troopers were apparently asked to assist in conducting a traffic stop on Monday, March 21 when local police reported what they described as erratic driving. Following the traffic stop, a State Police Drug Recognition Expert then performed an investigation. Allegedly, this expert confirmed the driver was impaired and thus unable to safely operate a motor vehicle.

At this point, police arrested the driver. When his criminal history check revealed the previous 2011 DWI related conviction, the man was then charged with the felony of Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs. Police issued the man traffic tickets that direct him to appear in court at a future date.

With the previous DWI conviction on his record, the defendant may have a more difficult time pleading his case than he otherwise would have had this been a first-time offense. Especially in cases like this, an experienced criminal defense attorney can prove invaluable. For New York citizens facing similar charges, whether the offense is a first or a repeat, the knowledge and guidance of a lawyer with experience in drunk driving and drug charges could potentially make all the difference when fighting for the best possible outcome.

Source: hudsonvalleynewsnetwork.com, “Lake Peekskill Man Arrested for Felony DWAI“, Kathy Welsh, March 23, 2017

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