Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism 2025 Update
Hillsborough County First-Time DUI Diversion Program (RIDR) – Key Information
Facing a first-time DUI in Hillsborough County? The Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism (RIDR) program offers a crucial second chance. Understanding its intricacies is key. We announced the program originally in 2018. Through the past years, we’ve compiled essential information in the table below, followed by frequently asked questions, to help you navigate this opportunity and protect your future.
| Feature | Description | Benefits for Client |
|---|---|---|
| Program Name | Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism (RIDR) | Opportunity to avoid a DUI conviction. |
| Eligibility | First-time DUI offense in Hillsborough County, FL. Specific criteria apply (e.g., no prior felonies, limited BAC). | Access to a diversion program instead of traditional court proceedings. |
| Program Components | Expert attorney W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. (813-222-2220) provides guidance and advocacy. | Structured rehabilitation and accountability. |
| Potential Outcomes | Upon successful completion, charges may be reduced or dismissed. | Avoidance of a criminal record, reduced penalties, and potential license reinstatement. |
| Legal Representation | Expert attorney W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. (813-222-2220) provides guidance and advocacy. | Navigating the complexities of the program with experienced legal counsel. |
| Timeframe | Typically 6-12 months, depending on individual circumstances. | A defined period for rehabilitation and compliance. |
| Cost | Program fees, evaluation costs, and legal fees. | Investment in avoiding long-term consequences of a DUI. |
FAQ First-Time DUI Diversion (RIDR) in Hillsborough County, FL – Answers from a Former DUI Prosecutor

The Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism (RIDR) program is a diversion program designed for first-time DUI offenders in Hillsborough County, FL. It offers an alternative to traditional court proceedings, allowing eligible individuals to avoid a DUI conviction by successfully completing specific program requirements.
Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis. Generally, you must be a first-time DUI offender in Hillsborough County with no prior felonies and a blood alcohol content (BAC) within certain limits. Other factors may also apply. It is best to contact an attorney to assess your eligibility and guide you through the program.
The primary benefit is the potential to avoid a DUI conviction, which can have significant long-term consequences. Other benefits include avoiding a criminal record, reduced penalties, such as fines and license suspension, opportunity for rehabilitation and education, and potential for license reinstatement.
The RIDR program typically includes DUI School, Victim Impact Panel, Community Service, Evaluation and recommended treatment (if applicable), and a period of supervision.
The program typically lasts 6-12 months, but the exact timeframe can vary depending on individual circumstances and compliance.
If you fail to complete the program, you will likely face traditional court proceedings, and criminal violation charges will be pursued.
An experienced attorney, like W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr., can assess your eligibility for the program, guide you through the application process, represent you in court and with program officials, advocate for your best interests, ensure you understand all aspects of the program and your rights, and help mitigate any issues that arise during the process. Casey was a Prosecutor in one of the first diversion programs in Hillsborough County over 20 years ago.
W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. is an expert attorney with extensive experience in DUI cases in Hillsborough County. He can provide knowledgeable legal representation, ensuring you understand your options and helping you navigate the RIDR program or other legal avenues. Contact him at 813-222-2220 for a consultation.
Costs include program fees, evaluation fees, and legal fees. It is essential to discuss these costs with your attorney to understand the financial implications.

Call 813-222-2220
Original Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism Announcement 2018

We just found out from Rena J. Frazier, Chief of Policy and Communication in the Office of the State Attorney 13th Judicial Circuit, “The State Attorney’s Office is commencing a new DUI initiative called Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism (RIDR), aimed at reducing impaired driving through enhanced sanctions. RIDR will become effective on March 1, 2018.”
Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism – RIDR
Program To Help Reduce Repeat DUI Offenders
This is breaking news. At this point, this is all we know. This includes all of Hillsborough County. Recidivism is the likelihood of a convicted criminal to carry out another crime. The new policy hopes to lessen the chance of the driver ever getting a second DUI.
This change in policy is important for drivers charged with their 1st DUI. According to Florida law, pretrial intervention programs can are available for a first time DUI driver as long as they have spoken with a lawyer, agrees to complete the program, waives the right to speedy trial, and the victim, the state, and the judge have all agreed.







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