Police Chief Johnny Holmes of south suburban Robbins served the police department for 33 years. In March 2010, Holmes was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) after he swerved into oncoming traffic, but he was allowed to keep his job. In December 2012, Holmes was arrested again for DUI with blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.194 percent, more than twice the legal limit. This time Holmes stepped down from the force and he will likely face harsh legal consequences.
As a police officer, Holmes should have known that it’s illegal to drive or be in control of a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher, or any amount intoxicating drugs. Even if you are not driving the vehicle, simply sitting in the driver seat could result in a DUI. Further, if you are below the age of 21, it is illegal to have a BAC over zero.
If you are pulled over and an officer requests that you take a breath, blood or urine test, Illinois’ implied consent law requires you to do so. By refusing the test or failing the test, the state may suspend your driver’s license. If you drive with a suspended license, your car may be seized under forfeiture laws, and you will not receive compensation.
In addition to suspension, DUI conviction carries the following punishments and penalties:
- First DUI
- Possible imprisonment for up to one year
- Maximum fine of $2,500
- Second DUI (within a 20-year period)
- Mandatory 10 days imprisonment or 480 hours community service
- Imprisonment for up to 12 years
- Maximum fine of $25,000
- Third DUI
- Mandatory 18 to 30 month periodic imprisonment
- Possible imprisonment for up to seven years
- Maximum fine of $25,000
- Aggravated DUI (DUI following an accident which resulted in great bodily harm)
- Mandatory five days imprisonment or 240 hours community service
- Possible imprisonment for up to one year
- Maximum fine of $2,500
If you or someone you know was charged with DUI, an experienced attorney can ensure your rights are protected.
Born in Havana, Cuba, Paul Chatzky is fluent in Spanish and English, enabling him to effectively represent a wider range of individuals and families. He is AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell®, and is listed among Illinois Super Lawyers, which is a reflection of his high ethical standards and exceptional legal knowledge. As a…
Prior to joining the firm as a paralegal, Debbie was employed by major banking institutions as a loan processor and as an executive secretary. Debbie was also employed as an administrative assistant for the Board of Jewish Education. Having majored in Sociology, Debbie graduated from the University of Florida in 1980. Debbie completed her studies…
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