As reported in the December 2, 2012 edition of the Providence Journal, East Providence Police arrested three (3) drivers for drunk driving following an unrelated accident. A female driver hit a utility pole and police responded to the accident. While directing traffic, police arrested an out of state motorist for drunk driving and another motorist for drunk driving and possession of marijuana after she hit the police cruiser. The third arrest occurred when a motorist failed to heed the officer and started to drive towards utility workers working to repair the pole.
Pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws 31-27-3, drunk driving is defined as whoever drives or otherwise operates any vehicle in the state while under the influence of any intoxicating liquor, drugs, toluene, or any controlled substance as defined in chapter 28 of title 21, or any combination of these, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
The penalties if convicted include a fine, community service, a period of license suspension, participation in DUI school or alcohol/drug treatment and costs and assessments.
Pursuant to R.I.G.L. 21-28-4.01, possession of marijuana is defined as possession of a controlled substance classified in schedule I as marijuana is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction may be imprisoned for not more than one year or fined not less than two hundred dollars ($200) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500), or both.
In addition, driving while in the possession of a controlled substance, marijuana, is punishable by in addition to any other penalty prescribed by law, whoever operates any motor vehicle while knowingly having in the motor vehicle or in his or her possession, a controlled substance, as defined in § 21-28-1.02, shall have his or her license suspended for a period of six (6) months.
If you or a family member has been charged with drunk driving, drunk driving – drugs or other driving offenses, please allow Attorney Robert H. Humphrey's reputation, experience and skill to successfully guide you through the legal process. Please contact Attorney Robert H. Humphrey, Esq., at 401-816-5862 or e-mail him at rhh@rhumphreylaw.com.