Even Olympians Not Immune from DUI
With the Beijing Olympics wrapping up last weekend, all the world was abuzz with news about Michael Phelps, Shawn Johnson, and the other Team USA athletes. Phelps may have broken Olympic records, but in 2004, at the age of 19, he received 18 months probation after pleading guilty to drunk driving.
Yes, even Olympic gold medalists have run-ins with the law. In Phelps’ case, his DUI defense attorney was able to reach an agreement with prosecutors that granted the Olympic swimmer probation before judgment. As long as Phelps complied with the terms of probation, his record would be expunged.
The terms of his probation included a requirement that Phelps pay $250 in fines and speak at three schools to advise young people about the dangers of alcohol and the importance of making good choices.
Phelps was also ordered to abstain from alcohol and illegal drugs, attend a victim impact panel meeting sponsored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and report to a probation supervisor once a month. In return for his guilty plea, prosecutors dropped charges for driving under the influence, underage drinking, and failure to stop at a stop sign.
Why America should stop obsessing over Michael Phelps, College Off the Record, August 19, 2008
Olympic Champ Sentenced For DUI, CBSNews.com, December 29, 2004
If you have been arrested and charged with drunk driving, then contact a San Diego criminal defense lawyer. Victor Orsatti at the San Diego Law Center can explain your legal options to you and may be able to eliminate or minimize jail time if it is a first offense.
