Use of DUI Technology Funds Expanded

 Posted on August 23, 2013 in Criminal defense lawyer

P.A. 97-1050 Effective January 1, 2013 Amends 625 ILCS 5/11-501.01 and provides that moneys in the State Police DUI Fund shall be used to purchase law enforcement equipment that will assist in the prevention of alcohol related criminal violence throughout the State (instead of for enforcement and prevention of driving while under the influence of alcohol, other drugs, intoxicating compounds or any combination thereof, including but not limited to the purchase of law enforcement equipment and commodities that will assist in the prevention of alcohol related criminal violence throughout the State; police officer training and education in areas related to alcohol related crime, including but not limited to DUI training; and police officer salaries, including but not limited to salaries for hire back funding for safety checkpoints, saturation patrols, and liquor store sting operations).

This negates the requirement that the funds be used strictly for the purchase of in-squad video cameras, radar and laser speed technology, and breath-alcohol testing equipment.

DUI and You

Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, or another drug, is a criminal offense. Sadly, it is an offense perpetrated daily across the nation. Some people may justify it to themselves because they still feel “in control,” or they “need to be somewhere”; but the law does not discriminate based on relative awareness or motive. The law clearly states that anybody testing with a blood-alcohol-level of .08 or higher while operating a vehicle is guilty of a DUI offense.

While DUI cases are commonplace, the consequences can be devastating. Being charged with a DUI in Illinois is a serious offense. The costs and penalties involved may seem severe, even excessive, to the person who is first encountering the ramifications of being found guilty of driving under the influence. A DUI conviction will lead to criminal charges permanently staining your record, the suspension or revocation of your license, and exorbitant fees from the DMV and the state.

If you are facing a DUI charge, it is in your best interest to contact competent legal counsel as soon as possible. The attorneys at Van Larson Law are experienced in DUI defense and can help you through this troubling process.