Orlando Police Sergeant Arrested And Charged With DUI After Seminole County Car Parking Lot Crash

According to a report from the Orlando Sentinel, Anthony Lappas—an Orlando police officer—was arrested and charged with intoxicated driving after a collision in Seminole County. The incident occurred in Winter Springs while Mr. Lappas was reportedly picking up his daughter from a child care facility. He was off-duty at the time of the incident. Here, our Orlando DUI defense attorney explains what we know about this case and discusses the impact that intoxication level can have on a drunk driving charge in Florida.

Criminal Allegations: Highly Intoxicated Off-Duty Police Officer Caused Crash 

As reported by the Orlando Sentinel, off-duty police officer Anthony Lappas arrived at a child care facility in Winter Springs, Florida. He initially parked improperly in a “drive through” area, thereby blocking other vehicles. Witnesses reported signs of intoxication. Mr. Lappas moved his vehicle and reportedly struck a concrete barricade. A responding officer with the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office observed signs of significant intoxication. Two breath tests were performed, with the defendant recording a BAC level of 0.16 on one of them—twice the legal limit. 

Florida DUI Law: BAC Level of 0.15 or Higher 

In the state of Florida, driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that can result in severe legal consequences. One of the factors that can significantly increase the severity of the penalties is having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.15 or higher. Remember, this is only twice the legal limit. “High” intoxication as defined by Florida law is lower than some people realize. When a driver is arrested for DUI in Florida and their BAC is measured at 0.15 or higher, they are subject to enhanced criminal penalties. These penalties can include longer jail sentences, higher fines, and longer periods of license suspension. Here is an overview:

• A first-time DUI offense with a BAC of 0.15 or higher, a driver can face up to 9 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, and a license suspension of up to 1 year.
• A second DUI offense with a BAC of 0.15 or higher, the penalties increase to up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $4,000, and a license suspension of up to 5 years. 

The Bottom Line: You need strong, experienced legal representation if you are facing a DUI charge for a BAC level of 0.15 or higher. Florida prosecutors take these cases very seriously. Consult with an Orlando, FL DUI defense lawyer right away. 

Speak to Our Orlando, FL DUI Defense Attorney Today

At The Baez Law Firm, our Orlando criminal defense lawyer has deep experience handling drunk driving cases. If you or someone you know was arrested and charged with any type of intoxicated driving offense, we are here to help. Reach out to us by phone or connect with us online to arrange your free, no obligation case review. From our Orlando law office, we defend drunk driving charges in Orange County and throughout all of Central Florida.

Source:

orlandosentinel.com/news/breaking-news/os-ne-orlando-sergeant-arrested-dui-seminole-school-20230302-74oh4nmgurcbbdhuz2zqvslnpa-story.html