Chicago Aggravated DUI Leads to 8 Year Prison Sentence

A former Chicago police detective killed two men in an aggravated DUI crash in 2009 on the Dan Ryan Expressway. In November of this year, the man, J.F. was sentenced to an 8-year prison sentence for his actions. At the time of his arrest, the former police detective had worked for the police department for 18 years and was at that time a homicide detective. The victims of the crash were two men, aged 21 and 23; one was a university student at DePaul University. The police detective rear-ended the victims' vehicle, crushing it so that the two men were unable to escape; later, their vehicle burst into flames, killing them.

The implicated DUI offender apparently had been drinking prior to the accident. When tested, it was found that his blood alcohol concentration was three times the legal limit of .08 percent. He was also accused and convicted of leaving the scene of the accident when he received help from another motorist and left the area on an exit ramp. According to prosecutors in the case, he was later arrested while on foot a short distance away. He was convicted of the DUI in a bench trial after pleading guilty in September.

DUI Lawyer Serving Chicago

Being arrested and charged with any type of DUI, especially one involving the physical injury of others is a very serious matter. In an effort to discourage drunk driving, law enforcement and state prosecutors push for harsh penalties for those convicted. A DUI conviction on your record can also create problems in finding future employment, for obtaining professional licenses, and even for renting an apartment because it can be easily accessed through a routine background check.

Whether this is your first DUI arrest or a subsequent one, it is highly recommended that you seek professional legal assistance from an attorney who knows how to investigate and defend a DUI. DUI cases involve complex issues, involving scientific and technical matters as well as legal considerations. At the Law Offices of Michael P. Schmiege, you will find a dedicated and highly-qualified criminal defense attorney who has been named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers, a distinction given to only 2.5 percent of all attorneys in the state of Illinois. Mr. Schmiege is available 24/7 and offers a free consultation to help you get started in handling your DUI defense. If you are facing an Illinois DUI charge in or around the Chicago area, contact the firm to arrange for a case evaluation today.