Underage DUI in Colorado: Legal Consequences and the Importance of Legal Representation

In the early hours of the morning, a Pennsylvania motorist found himself at a DUI checkpoint, facing a routine stop by law enforcement. Little did the officers know that this seemingly typical DUI stop would take a bizarre and alarming turn.

As the clock neared 4 a.m., a 19-year-old individual behind the wheel was approached by a state trooper. The officer requested the driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance, standard procedure during a DUI checkpoint. However, what began as a routine stop soon unraveled into a shocking incident that involved impersonation, intoxication, and a potentially dangerous situation.

Impersonating a Police Officer

The 19-year-old driver, in a misguided attempt to avoid the consequences of a DUI, took impersonation to an alarming level. He not only portrayed himself as a police officer but went to great lengths to make his ruse convincing. He parked his vehicle diagonally across the road, mimicking law enforcement tactics, and even used flares to illuminate the area. In a startling turn of events, he was also found to be under the influence of alcohol.

As the real law enforcement officers arrived on the scene, the young driver made a reckless decision. He handed what appeared to be a firearm to a passenger in his vehicle, stating, “I can’t get caught with this.” Subsequently, it was determined that the weapon in question was, in fact, a BB gun. The consequences of his actions quickly caught up with him, resulting in a series of charges, including drunk driving, impersonating a public servant, and unlawful restraint.

Underage DUI Conviction in Colorado

While this unusual case unfolded in Pennsylvania, underage DUI incidents are not uncommon, and they carry serious legal consequences, including in Colorado. In the state of Colorado, minors who are convicted of a first-time DUI or DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between 0.02 and 0.05 percent face an automatic three-month license suspension. If the BAC exceeds 0.05 percent, the penalties escalate to those typically applied to adults, including potential imprisonment for up to one year, fines of up to $1,000, and license revocation.

Beyond these primary consequences, there is also the risk of ancillary DUI charges that can compound the legal challenges. These charges may include distribution of alcohol to other minors, minor in possession of alcohol, soliciting alcohol, child endangerment, possession of a false ID, and various moving and vehicle maintenance violations. Additionally, those convicted of underage DUI often face increased car insurance rates or the possibility of policy termination.

Seeking Legal Counsel

Suppose you find yourself facing the legal aftermath of an underage DUI charge in Colorado. In that case, it is crucial to seek professional legal representation promptly. DUI cases involving minors require careful consideration of the specific circumstances, potential penalties, and legal strategies to protect your rights and mitigate the consequences.

Thomas & Ahnell, LLC, is a law firm strongly focusing on alcohol and drug-related driving offenses in Colorado. Their experienced attorneys understand the intricacies of underage DUI cases and can provide the guidance and advocacy needed to navigate the legal complexities effectively. Whether you are dealing with a first-time DUI or a more complex situation, securing the services of a knowledgeable DUI attorney is essential to safeguard your future.