| Nov 20, 2014 | Case: 12-019040MM10A | Judge Gottleib |
| Facts: | The defendant was stopped for excessive speed. As the officer approached the vehicle he smelled a strong odor of alcohol. Upon reaching for his license and registration, the defendant appeared dazed and had slow reactions. The officer next observed bloodshot eyes. The defendant admitted to consuming alcohol at the American Legion. The defendant performed the HGN (eye test), rhomberg balance test as well as the finger to nose. He was asked to perform the walk and turn as well as one leg stand but the defendant stated he was overweight and could not perform them. Upon arrest the officers discovered marijuana as well as a pipe in the vehicle. | |
| Defense: | First, Parks & Braxton filed a motion to dismiss the charging document because it alleged that the defendant was under the influence of both marijuana and alcohol. The marijuana was fresh and as a result, there was no evidence that he was under the influence of it. Next, the defense presented a video that contradicted many of the officer's observations. | |
| Result: | The State dropped the DUI. | |