Our favorite Olympic swimmer, who was caught doing 84 MPH in a 45 MPH zone last week, has announced to his fans that he will be entering a six-week treatment program as a result of his recent DUI charge in Baltimore. In his statement he elaborated on the fact that focusing on himself is his top priority and that this program will allow him to do just that. Phelps agent, however, did not specify as to whether he would receive treatment for alcohol abuse. Phelps is still scheduled to appear in Baltimore District Court for trial on November 19.
His actions have already caught up to him after just a week from the incident. USA Swimming has suspended Phelps for six months for violations of their code of conduct. This is his second suspension – the first one was in 2009 for three months after being photographed with a marijuana pipe. The suspension does not take him out of the mayor meets; however, the most detrimental news to his career so far is that he is unable to compete at next summer´s FINA World Championship in Russia, the preparatory meet for the 2016 Olympics in Rio.
Supporters and friends of Phelps are proud and pleased that he is addressing the problem and taking the proper steps, like seeking professional help, in order to effectively take care of it once and for all.
“We fully support Michael’s decision to place his health and well-being as the number one priority,” USA Swimming Executive Director Chuck Wielgus said in a statement. “His self-recognition and commitment to get help exhibit how serious he is to learn from this experience.”
Getting charged with a DUI in Florida or in any other state can be a frightening situation if you are not sure what to expect or how serious the charges and/or the penalties are. If you are ever arrested, you should seek legal advice as soon as possible and find a lawyer that will give you the best defense options and will fight for your case.
A first DUI offense in Florida is considered a misdemeanor and can result in a term of probation; a fine ranging from $500 – $1000 (depending on the facts and the level of the breath sample); community service hours; a vehicle impound; DUI School/Alcohol Evaluation and Treatment; court costs; possible jail time (depending on the severity of the offense); possibility of installment of an Ignition Interlock device, and a Driver’s License Revocation (depending on the level of breath sample) – minimum 180 days revocation, maximum 1 year (must complete DUI school before hardship reinstatement.)
A second DUI offense is still considered a misdemeanor in Florida, unless it resulted in serious bodily injury to another, in which case it would be charged as a felony. Penalties for a second DUI include a fine, no less than $1,000, or more than $2,000; jail time; court costs; DUI School. If the second conviction is within 5 years, mandatory imprisonment of at least 10 days; installation of an Ignition Interlock device (mandatory), and a 5 year Driver’s License Revocation (eligible for hardship reinstatement after 1 year – must complete DUI school). A third, fourth, fifth or more DUI conviction will result in harsher penalties.
If you, a friend or a loved one is ever charged with an alcohol- related offense, call Finebloom, Haenel & Higgins and talk to one of our highly experienced DUI Defense Attorneys. They are available all day and are ready to give you the best advice as to your options and help you cope with this difficult situation.
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