Officials are releasing more information about Tiger Woods’ arrest for drunk driving. They say that chemical tests showed multiple prescription drugs in the golf legend’s system at the time of his arrest. They say the drugs included sleep medications and painkillers as well as the active ingredient for marijuana. Woods hasn’t admitted to smoking marijuana.
Attorneys for the State of Florida have worked out a plea agreement for Woods. He plans to plead guilty to reckless driving. In addition, state attorneys are allowing him to enter a diversion program that helps offenders address substance abuse issues. Woods worked with a DUI criminal defense lawyer to reach the plea agreement.
The charges come after law enforcement found Woods unconscious in his vehicle on the side of the road. His vehicle had damage, but law enforcement officers weren’t able to see anything in the area that he hit. Officers say that Woods cooperated with their investigation.
Woods said that he was taking the medications in order to treat back problems. He said that it was a mistake to not have better doctors and monitoring to keep his medicine levels in check. Woods said that his back continues to heal as he hopes to make a return to competitive golf.
In Florida, a driver can face a DUI charge even if there’s no alcohol in their system. If the state can prove that you’re under the influence of illegal drugs or a controlled substance, you can be guilty of drunk driving. Although there’s no legal limit for prescription medications like there is for alcohol, the state only needs to show that you’re under the influence of the drugs when you drive.
If you face these charges, a Fort Laduerdale DUI Defense Attorney can help you determine the best course of action. Like in the case of Tiger Woods, your Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer can help you determine if you’re eligible to take advantage of any diversion programs that might be available to you. Often times, you can participate in these programs in exchange for a reduction in the penalties against you.
Your Fort Laduerdale DUI Defense Attorney can also review the case to see if you have viable defenses. If there are weaknesses in the state’s case, you might take the case to trial to ask the jury to find you not guilty. If you or someone you know have been in a similar legal situation contact Hassett & Associates, P.A. at 954-791-3939.
