If you’re arrested for an OUI, you may face other charges as well. Often, police officers are able to charge one person for multiple infractions in a single stop, because multiple laws were allegedly broken together. Here’s what you should know about being charged with other crimes at the same time you’re charged with an OUI.
Reckless Driving In Massachusetts
Reckless driving is commonly charged along with an OUI. Massachusetts law defines reckless driving as the operating a vehicle in a way that endangers the lives of the public. For example, excessive speeding or drag racing on public roads are typically considered reckless driving.
Drug Possession
If you are arrested for an OUI, this gives officers the right to search your vehicle to look for any evidence of drugs or other contraband. Since many law enforcement officers in Massachusetts are becoming Drug Recognition Experts (DREs), you can be confident that any officer that stops you for operating under the influence is going to be looking for evidence that you may be in the possession of illegal drugs.
Drug Paraphernalia
When police search your vehicle, they’ll also be looking for drug paraphernalia. Despite recent cannabis law reform, it still remains illegal in Massachusetts to possess paraphernalia used for illegal drugs like crack, cocaine, and heroin. If convicted, you stand to face 1-2 years in jail and a fine of $500-$5,000. If you are convicted of selling drug paraphernalia to an individual under the age of 18, you could face 3-5 years in state prison and a $1,000-$5,000 fine.
Open Container
In Massachusetts, it’s illegal to have an open container of alcohol in the passenger area, or cab, of the vehicle when the vehicle is being operated, with the exception of resealed bottles of wine. In some types of vehicles, such as RVs or limousines, passengers are allowed to have open containers of alcohol, but the driver never is.
Arrested for an OUI? Contact a Massachusetts Criminal Defense Attorney Today
Don’t wait after being charged with operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs to contact an experienced OUI attorney in Massachusetts. It’s even more important to reach out to a lawyer if you’ve been charged with multiple crimes, such as an open container violation or reckless driving. When your future is on the line, call Springfield criminal defense lawyers Kokonowski & Kokonowski, LLC for a consultation at (413) 737-9700.
