Pennsylvania DUI Lawyers Blog
In Pennsylvania, DUI charges can escalate quickly when accompanied by other alleged criminal conduct or a history of prior offenses. When a defendant attempts to flee from law enforcement or has multiple DUI convictions, prosecutors often pursue enhanced penalties and mandatory sentencing provisions. A recent Pennsylvania DUI decision demonstrates how these factors can shape both trial outcomes and appellate review. If you are facing DUI charges, especially with aggravating elements like flight or repeat offenses, it is critical to work with an experienced Pennsylvania DUI defense attorney who understands how to challenge the charges and protect your rights.
Factual and Procedural History
It is reported that police officers in Lebanon County observed a pickup truck parked in a restaurant lot late at night with its headlights on. As officers approached the vehicle, the driver exited and attempted to walk away, refusing repeated commands to stop. It is alleged that when the officers pursued, the driver ran back to the truck and attempted to flee in reverse, striking a police cruiser. Officers then forcibly removed the driver from the truck and detained him.
It is alleged that officers detected an odor of alcohol on the defendant and observed bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. The defendant reportedly declined field sobriety testing and was transported to a hospital for a blood draw. According to the record, the defendant became combative at the hospital and refused to cooperate. No blood draw was completed. The defendant was charged with driving under the influence (third offense), fleeing and eluding, and multiple related offenses.
It is reported that the case proceeded to a jury trial. The Commonwealth presented bodycam footage, police testimony, and expert testimony concerning signs of intoxication. The jury found the defendant guilty on several counts, including DUI and fleeing from police. The trial court sentenced the defendant to a term of incarceration and imposed DUI sentencing enhancements based on prior convictions. The defendant appealed the judgment of sentence.
Enhanced Sentencing in DUI Cases
On appeal, the defendant argued that the trial court erred by admitting prior DUI convictions without sufficient foundation, that the evidence was insufficient to support the fleeing charge, and that the court improperly applied DUI recidivist sentencing enhancements. The appellate court reviewed each issue using the relevant standard of review—legal conclusions were considered de novo, while factual findings were evaluated for clear error.
The court began by rejecting the defendant’s challenge to the sufficiency of the evidence for fleeing and eluding. It held that the jury reasonably concluded the defendant failed to comply with police commands and intentionally attempted to flee the scene by reentering the vehicle and reversing into the police cruiser. The court noted that under 75 Pa.C.S. § 3733, a person commits the offense of fleeing if they willfully fail to stop for law enforcement after receiving a visible or audible signal.
Next, the court addressed the admission of prior DUI convictions for sentencing enhancement. The defendant claimed the Commonwealth failed to present adequate proof that he was the same individual referenced in prior cases. However, the court held that certified court records, combined with the defendant’s date of birth and identifying information, sufficiently established identity. The panel found that the trial court acted within its discretion by applying recidivist enhancements under 75 Pa.C.S. § 3804, which mandates longer minimum sentences for third and subsequent DUI offenses.
The court also reviewed the defendant’s claim that the trial court erred by considering certain statements made by law enforcement and hospital staff. It determined that none of the evidentiary rulings rose to the level of reversible error. Accordingly, the appellate court affirmed the judgment of sentence in its entirety.
Meet with an Experienced Pennsylvania DUI Defense Attorney Today
If you were arrested for DUI or face sentencing enhancements due to a prior record or aggravating conduct, it is crucial to seek experienced legal guidance as soon as possible. Attorney Zachary B. Cooper is a skilled Pennsylvania DUI defense attorney with a track record of protecting clients’ rights and challenging questionable prosecutions. To schedule a confidential consultation, contact Mr. Cooper at (215) 542-0800 or reach out through the online form.