Tag: DUI Arrest Contest

DUI News

Florida DUI Arrest Contest More News

W F Casey Ebsary Jr

If you believe your Florida DUI arrest was influenced by an officer’s participation in an arrest contest or incentive program, you’re likely feeling confused and violated. To help you understand your rights and potential defenses after a Florida DUI arrest, here are some common questions we hear from clients in similar situations, along with expert answers from DUI Attorney Casey the Lawyer at (813-222-2220)

Florida DUI Arrest Contest

Florida DUI Arrest Contest


When I was pulled over, did the officer seem unusually eager or aggressive?

Unfortunately, this is a common complaint in cases where arrest quotas or contests are suspected. An officer driven by such incentives may prioritize quick arrests over thorough investigation, leading to an aggressive demeanor. If you felt this way, it is vital to document specific behaviors and statements.

Did the officer mention anything about awards, quotas, or high arrest numbers?

Direct mentions are rare. However, subtle cues, like excessive focus on arrest procedures or a lack of concern for your explanations, can be red flags. We can analyze the officer’s behavior and statements to build a case against them.

Did the officer follow standard procedures, or were there any shortcuts or deviations?

Deviations from standard procedures are crucial. If the officer rushed the field sobriety tests, skipped steps, or failed to properly calibrate the breathalyzer, it could invalidate the evidence. We need to examine the police report and any available video.

Was I given a fair chance to explain myself or contact an attorney?

Your right to counsel is fundamental. If you were denied this right, it’s a serious violation. We can file motions to suppress evidence and potentially get the charges dismissed. Document any instances of denied access.

Do you think the officer was more interested in making an arrest than ensuring public safety?

That’s the core issue with these alleged contests. When officers are incentivized to make arrests, public safety can take a backseat. We will build a case to show the officers motivations, and defend your rights.

Was there any video or audio recording of the arrest?

Video and audio evidence is critical. We’ll get all available recordings to analyze the officer’s actions and statements. If there is video, it can be very helpful to your case.

Were the field sobriety tests explained clearly, and were they conducted properly?

Improperly conducted field sobriety tests are a common issue. We’ll challenge the validity of these tests, especially if you were not given clear instructions or if the testing environment was unsuitable.

Do you think the officer’s actions were influenced by a contest or pressure to make arrests?

If there’s evidence of a contest or incentive program, it strengthens your case. We’ll investigate the officer’s arrest history and any internal communications.

Have you experienced any negative consequences because of this arrest?

The consequences of a DUI arrest can be severe. We’ll work to minimize the damage to your license, reputation, and finances.

Are you aware of other people who have had similar experiences with this officer or department?

We’ll investigate any patterns of misconduct or similar complaints against the officer or department. Shared experiences can strengthen your case.

Do you feel like you were treated fairly?

If you felt unfairly treated, we’ll fight to ensure your rights are protected. We’ll challenge the arrest and hold the officer accountable.

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Florida DUI Arrest Contest: The Dark Side of DUI Enforcement

DUI Defense Attorney’s Observation

As we continue to tally the Florida DUI Arrest awards given to police officers who arrest drivers in contests, we felt this a newsletter that has since been deleted from the Tampa Police Department would continue to establish that enforcement of DUI has become a contest, where the prizes are awarded to the cops, and the criminal record is given to the drivers. We have yet to receive an answer to these questions: “Do they have to give the award back when someone is cleared of the charges after one of these arrests?” and “Who paid for the trip, hotel rooms, and travel expenses?”

Have you been a pawn in this game? Call Me Toll-Free to Discuss 1-877-793-9290.


Let us help you 813.222.2220
Casey The Lawyer in Car
Casey The Lawyer

DUI Arrest Contest News

“[T]he State of Florida MADD Chapter hosted the 8th Annual MADD Awards in Tallahassee. Six members of the DUI Unit attended the banquet and accepted the awards. Officers were recognized for making over 100 individual DUI arrests. Sixteen members, past and present, were presented this award: Sgt. Doug Groves, Cpl. Edwin Bodamer, MPOs Kenny Setser, Steve Wilson, John Vallejo, Steve Buchanan, Brian Reschke, Dean Uno, Officers Ferdinand Barbosa, James Blanchard, Anthony Portman, Steven Cragg, Peter Bucher, Kristie Borgo, Joseph Sustek, and Juan Melo.

MADD also presented a “Century Achievers Award” for officers who have exceeded 1000 individual DUI arrests. Seven members of the DUI Unit were presented this award: MPOs Kenny Setser, Steve Wilson, John Vallejo Steve Buchanan, Officers James Blanchard, Anthony Portman and Juan Melo.

Only 39 officers in Florida have achieved this milestone award. Cpl. Edwin Bodamer and MPO John Vallejo were given an award for the Zero Tolerance (underage drinking) citations issued in 2007. The Tampa DUI Unit continues to lead the DUI efforts in Florida and being recognized on this level by MADD.”

Arrest Contest Rules

Introduction

The Florida DUI Sustained Enforcement Program supports the goal of promoting high visibility DUI enforcement operations. The program, administered by the FDOT Safety Office, offers an incentive program with four participation levels, allowing law enforcement agencies to choose a level that aligns with their manpower availability.

Participation and Equipment Catalog

The Law Enforcement Liaison Program collects monthly reports from participating agencies, assesses their participation level at the end of the calendar year, and provides access to an online equipment catalog. Agencies can select DUI enforcement equipment based on earned participation points directly from the catalog.

Saturation Patrol

A saturation patrol involves assigning several officers to DUI enforcement duties in a defined high-crash area of the agency’s jurisdiction. Minimum staffing guidelines vary based on agency size, and patrols must operate for a minimum of four hours between 7 pm to 4 am. Press releases are required to promote public awareness, and agencies receive credit for one saturation patrol per day.

DUI Checkpoint

A DUI checkpoint is a roadblock where motorists are stopped and checked for signs of impairment. Agencies must develop a detailed operational plan, hold a pre-checkpoint briefing, and send a press release at least two days prior to meet legal requirements. Checkpoints must be conducted between 7 pm to 4 am on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays, with waivers available for special events during the week.

Modified Sustained Enforcement Program (2009)

The program has four levels of participation, with points earned for specific DUI enforcement activities. Points determine the level of participation, and participating agencies can earn equipment compensation based on their achieved level. Award levels are Platinum ($15,000), Gold ($10,000), Silver ($5,000), and Bronze ($2,500).

Random Drawing Incentives

Agencies qualifying at the Bronze or Silver levels are eligible for a random drawing for a laser speed measuring device. Agencies at the Platinum or Gold levels qualify for a random drawing for additional incentives.

Source: Florida DUI Sustained Enforcement Program

DUI Enforcement Activity Points

Activity Points Earned
Conduct/Host DUI Checkpoint 100
Saturation Patrol 20
Attend Checkpoint hosted by other agency 10

Award Levels

Level DUI Enforcement Activity Points Earned
Platinum 6000
Gold 4000
Silver 2000
Bronze 1000

Florida DUI Arrest Contest Winners | DUI Tampa Driving Under the Influence

Challenging Assumptions

Before you believe that officers do not have an incentive to arrest for Florida DUI in the Tampa Bay area, DUI Attorney W.F. ‘Casey’ Ebsary, Jr. noted there was a recent DUI Award Banquet Honoring Florida Highway Patrol Officers with Over 100 DUI Arrests, according to MADD.

Award Recognition

They used to post these awards online until we started asking award winners about these contests in court – here was the old link http://www.madd.org/chapter/1200_2981.

Outstanding Achievements

Also awarded were officers with over a 1000 arrests.

Contest Winners

There were 13 contest winners at the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HSCO). There were 16 contest winners at the Tampa Police Department (TPD). These were just the officers who got over a hundred in the year. There are others with less.

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

Deputy Jackie Brock Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Beau Dobson Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy James Glover Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Carolyn Jolly Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Carl McCalla Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Jimmy McDowell Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Matthew McMurphy Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Felix Moret Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Lawrence Morrell Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Shawn Morrey Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Kevin Stabins Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Candace Steinmeir Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Anthony Watson Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

Tampa Police Department

Officer Ferdinand Barbosa Tampa Police Department
Officer James Blanchard Tampa Police Department
Corporal Edwin Bodamer Tampa Police Department
Officer Kristie Borgo Tampa Police Department
Master Patrol Officer Steven Buchanan Tampa Police Department
Officer Peter Bucher Tampa Police Department
Officer Steven Cragg Tampa Police Department
Corporal Douglas Groves Tampa Police Department
Officer Juan Melo Tampa Police Department
Officer Anthony Portman Tampa Police Department
Master Patrol Officer Brian Reschke Tampa Police Department
Master Patrol Officer Kenneth Setser Tampa Police Department
Officer Joseph Sustek Tampa Police Department
Master Patrol Officer Dean Uno Tampa Police Department
Master Patrol Officer John Vallejo Tampa Police Department
Master Patrol Officer Steven Wilson Tampa Police Department

1000+ DUI Awards

Deputy Jackie Brock Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Lloyd Hyder Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Felix Moret Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Lawrence Morrell Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Paul Shute Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Gregory Williams Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

Officer James Blanchard Tampa Police Department Office
Master Patrol Officer Steven Buchanan Tampa Police Department
Officer Juan Melo Tampa Police Department Office
Officer Anthony Portman Tampa Police Department Office
Master Patrol Officer Kenneth Setser Tampa Police Department Office
Master Patrol Officer John Vallejo Tampa Police Department Office
Master Patrol Officer Steven Wilson Tampa Police Department Office

 

Florida DUI 100 Arrest Contest Winners

DUI Defense Attorney Observes: The increasing number of awards bestowed upon police officers for DUI arrests has turned law enforcement into a competition, as highlighted in this newsletter excerpt from the Tampa Police Department. The prizes go to the officers, while the drivers face the consequences of a criminal record. Unanswered questions persist: “Must the awarded accolades be returned if the charges are later dropped?” and “Who foots the bill for the officers’ trips, accommodations, and related expenses?”

Have you found yourself caught in this contest? Call me toll-free to discuss at 1-877-793-9290.


Let us help you 813.222.2220

In Tallahassee, the State of Florida MADD Chapter recently held the 8th Annual MADD Awards, where members of the DUI Unit were acknowledged for their achievements. However, the event appeared to prioritize the quantity of DUI arrests rather than the broader safety concerns of our community. Sixteen members, both current and former, received recognition, and MADD presented a “Century Achievers Award” to officers with over 1000 individual DUI arrests. Notably, seven members of the DUI Unit received this distinction, a feat achieved by only 39 officers in Florida.

The event also highlighted officers, including Sgt. Doug Groves, Cpl. Edwin Bodamer, MPOs Kenny Setser, Steve Wilson, John Vallejo, Steve Buchanan, Brian Reschke, Dean Uno, Officers Ferdinand Barbosa, James Blanchard, Anthony Portman, Steven Cragg, Peter Bucher, Kristie Borgo, Joseph Sustek, and Juan Melo, who were honored for surpassing 100 individual DUI arrests. Additionally, Cpl. Edwin Bodamer and MPO John Vallejo were recognized for their efforts in issuing Zero Tolerance (underage drinking) citations in 2007.

While acknowledging the accomplishments of law enforcement, it is crucial to question the emphasis on arrest numbers and consider whether this aligns with the broader goals of community safety. The commitment of the Tampa DUI Unit to lead DUI enforcement in Florida is acknowledged, but the event raises concerns about the overall approach to public safety and the well-being of citizens.

If you have questions or concerns about DUI arrests or law enforcement practices, I encourage you to reach out. Call Casey Ebsary, the Lawyer, for a discussion on how we can advocate for a fair and just approach to community safety.

 

Observations by DUI Defense Attorney

The increasing number of awards bestowed upon police officers for DUI arrests has turned law enforcement into a competition, as highlighted in this newsletter excerpt from the Tampa Police Department. The prizes go to the officers, while the drivers face the consequences of a criminal record. Unanswered questions persist: “Must the awarded accolades be returned if the charges are later dropped?” and “Who foots the bill for the officers’ trips, accommodations, and related expenses?”

Concerns about Traffic Enforcement Initiative

A Harley Davidson Road King patrol motorcycle has been awarded to the traffic enforcement division of the sheriff’s office in a Florida county.

The sheriff prioritized traffic enforcement upon taking office, resulting in the program being recognized as one of the state’s top initiatives. The Florida Department of Transportation’s Motor Unit Challenge randomly selected this county as the grand prize winner, securing a fully equipped $30,000 Harley.

Implications for Drivers

For drivers navigating the roads, this development raises questions. The sheriff’s emphasis on traffic enforcement, while commendable, brings about concerns regarding potential increased scrutiny on motorists. The acquisition of a new motorcycle may symbolize recognition, but it also signals heightened vigilance on the roads, potentially impacting drivers who may feel unfairly targeted.

Evaluation of Traffic Enforcement Practices

According to a law enforcement liaison in the region, being the best in Florida’s traffic enforcement goes beyond issuing tickets. A comprehensive scoring system evaluates each participating department based on factors such as citations, reductions in traffic crashes, increased seat belt usage, education, and training.

Officers from recognized programs had the opportunity to compete for the Harley in Orlando. The winning officer emerged after trying their luck with the key.

The newly acquired Harley now belongs to a deputy in the traffic division.

Source: NorthEscambia.com

Have you found yourself caught in this contest? Call me toll-free to discuss at 1-877-793-9290.


Let us help you 813.222.2220
 
Notes:
 
The State removed this from the web, we have it here:
 
 
DUI News

Florida DUI Arrest Contest Costs $1,720,000

W F Casey Ebsary Jr

The hidden costs of the “Florida DUI Arrest Contest,” a controversial competition among law enforcement agencies are being reported. While headlines tout awarded safety equipment, the reality reveals a staggering financial burden on citizens. This contest, incentivizing DUI arrests with prizes, has led to estimated costs exceeding $1.7 million, encompassing legal fees, fines, and soaring insurance premiums.

Explore the implications of these contests, where the pursuit of awards may overshadow public safety. Delve into the debate surrounding potential quota systems and the validity of related law enforcement training, and understand the true price paid by Florida drivers.

Q&A on Florida DUI Arrest Contest

Florida DUI Arrest Contest
Florida DUI Arrest Contest
What was the “DUI Arrest Contest” in Florida, and what were the prizes?

It was a competition among law enforcement agencies to see who could make the most DUI arrests. The prizes included cash and equipment; in one instance, a police department won $18,000 for DUI safety equipment.

What were the estimated total costs to citizens resulting from this contest?

The estimated total costs to citizens were $1,720,000.

How was the $1,720,000 figure calculated?

It was calculated by estimating the legal fees, fines, and insurance increases associated with each DUI arrest. The calculations were as follows:

Legal Fees: $5,000 per arrest
Fines: $2,500 per arrest
Insurance Increase: $12,500 per arrest

What was the return on investment (ROI) for the contest organizers?

The ROI was calculated to be 9500 percent. The $18,000 prize given out, resulted in 1,720,000 in costs to citizens.

What concerns were raised about these contests?

Concerns were raised about potential quota systems, civil rights violations, and the focus on “prizes” rather than public safety. There were also concerns raised about the validity of the “Drug Recognition Expert” training that some of the police officers recieved.

Table of Estimated Florida DUI Arrest Contest Costs:

Florida DUI Arrest Contest
Cost CategoryCost Per ArrestTotal Cost (86 Arrests)
Legal Fees$5,000$430,000
Fines$2,500$215,000
Insurance Increase$12,500$1,075,000
Total Estimated Costs to Citizens$1,720,000

Original Florida DUI Arrest Contest Post Data

Arrest Contest, DUI Arrest, DUI Arrest Contest,
Give away $18,000
Cost citizens nearly $2,000,000.
9500 percent ROI. 

How to Win a DUI Arrest Contest

 
As a Georgia DUI Lawyer noted, when contests and quotas are in play, some police agencies keep their eyes on the prize. In that case , there is a civil rights lawsuit attacking quotas for DUI Arrests.
 
 

Florida DUI Arrest Contest – True Costs

 
Meanwhile, back in Florida, one small Florida town became the best losers by finishing second in the DUI Arrest Contest that is an ongoing competition to see who can make the most arrests and win cash and prizes. They won $18,000 for 86 arrests.
 

 

Let’s do the math (show your work) and find the actual cost to some Americans – $1,720,000.

86 Arrests x $5,000.00 Legal Fees =   $   430,000
86 Arrests x $2,500.00 Fines =  $   215,000

86 Arrests x $12,500 Insurance Increase = $1,075,000

Total Estimated Costs to Citizens =                  $1,720,000

Great return on investment.

Give away $18,000 and cost citizens nearly $2,000,000.
This is a 9500 percent return on investment ( ROI ).

By the way, the headline read, “Village police win $18,000 for DUI safety equipment.” The police in this town also train cops in the faux science of Drug Symptom Recognition. The chief of police sends his”Drug Recognition Enforcement (DRE) program officers to attend numerous DUI checkpoints and training to gain valuable experience.”  We have covered the fake science associated with Drug Recognition Experts and their creation by the DUI Industrial Complex here.

 
Read the complete DUI Arrest Contest Winners story here:
 
 

Previous Florida DUI Arrest Contest Coverage

 

 

DUI News

DUI Arrest Contests in Florida – Mike Williams

W F Casey Ebsary Jr

The arrest of NFL player Mike Williams for DUI by Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Deputy Carl McCalla sparked controversy due to discrepancies in the evidence. Williams was initially accused of driving under the influence with a BAC of .065/.061, below the legal limit of .08, and failing field sobriety tests. However, a subsequent urine test revealed no drugs in his system, leading the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office to drop all charges.

Concerns arose regarding the validity of the arrest, particularly given Deputy McCalla’s history of winning DUI arrest contests. Critics, including Tampa DUI Attorney Casey Ebsary, questioned the “thoroughness” of the investigation and the potential influence of such award-driven law enforcement practices. The focus shifted to the incentive structure within law enforcement, where awards and equipment are given for meeting arrest quotas, potentially compromising impartial judgment.

Williams’ legal team maintained his innocence throughout the ordeal, stating that he was not impaired and that the video evidence supported their claim. The emotional toll on Williams was significant, given his efforts to rehabilitate his image after previous issues. He received support from his team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who continued to play him during the investigation, and his impressive rookie season highlighted his talent, solidifying his standing within the NFL.

The case brought to light broader issues surrounding DUI arrests in Florida, including the commercialization of law enforcement and the potential for biased practices due to arrest contests and financial incentives. Legal professionals like Casey Ebsary emphasized the need for impartial law enforcement, raising concerns about the impact of such contests on the integrity of the justice system.

 

Mike Williams – Bucaneers Worst DUI Arrest Award

The True Costs of DUI Arrest Contests
Casey The Lawyer on The True Costs of DUI Arrest Contests

Concerns About Deputy’s DUI Arrest Contest

Tampa DUI Attorney has been closely monitoring the activities of Deputy Carl McCalla of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO). The recent case involving the arrest of professional athlete Mike Williams, where the suspect’s Breath Alcohol Content (BAC) was recorded as .065/.061 and the subsequent clean urine test, raises questions. Mike would tragically die in a construction accident in 2023.

Media reports: DUI charge against Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Mike Williams dropped.

One can reasonably question the accuracy of the “thorough” investigation by the HCSO DUI unit, especially considering the charges initially brought against this 23-year-old star. After enduring months of public scrutiny, Williams has been cleared by the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office. Deputy McCalla, previously featured for winning a DUI Arrest contest, brings attention to the potential flaws in such award-driven law enforcement practices.

The Hillsborough State Attorney’s Office has decided not to pursue charges against Bucs receiver Mike Williams for driving under the influence.

The rookie was arrested in November, accused of driving a black Cadillac at 57 mph in a 45 mph zone near U.S. 301 and Causeway Boulevard in east Hillsborough County shortly before 3 a.m. and weaving between lanes.

Although tests indicated that his blood-alcohol level was 0.065 percent and 0.061 percent, which is below the 0.08 percent threshold at which the state presumes a driver is impaired, authorities claimed Williams failed a field-sobriety test, smelled of alcohol, and appeared to have glassy eyes.

State attorney spokesman Mark Cox stated on Friday that lab results showed Williams, 23, had no drugs in his system. After reviewing these results and Williams’ performance in the roadside field-sobriety test, prosecutors decided to drop the DUI.

Here is our award – Our Opinion – Carl McCalla, HCSO, today’s worst DUI in the World!

DUI Contest Award - Worst DUI Arrest in the World
DUI Contest Award – Worst DUI Arrest in the World

DUI In-Car Video From Mike Williams’ Arrest | You Decide

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Hillsborough DUI Deputy Busts Football Player | Case Dropped

State Attorney’s Decision

“Based on the evidence we had, we did not feel we had a legally sufficient basis to proceed with the case,” Cox said.

Williams’ Response

Williams declined to comment, but his attorney said his client was never concerned about the outcome.

“He had nothing to hide and he was not worried when the State of Florida was taking his urine because he knew there was nothing in there illegal,” a lawyer said. “He had nothing to worry about.”

Asked his assessment of the videotape showing the field-sobriety test, the lawyer was unequivocal.

“Mike Williams was not impaired that evening and the videotape confirms that,” he said. “That’s what we always maintained. The state attorney’s office reviewed all the evidence in this case and they came to the same conclusion.”

Emotional Impact

The whole ordeal took a bit of an emotional toll on Williams,  considering the questions about his history at Syracuse and his attempt to walk a straight-and-narrow path since being drafted.

“He was obviously very upset at the fact he was arrested because he had come to the Bucs and was having a great year and working real hard and didn’t want anything to detract from the team because of team goals and also for himself,” the attorney said.

“It really hurt him. But he was confident from the beginning that all the facts would come out and he thanks the Bucs organization, teammates and fans who all stood by him during this incident. He was just glad that it was able to be resolved quickly.” said the lawyer.

Team Support

Williams had the support of his team throughout. Coach Raheem Morris opted to play Williams two days after his arrest in a game at San Francisco.

“We’re pleased by this news and are happy for Mike, who is already focused on an exciting 2011 season,” said Bucs director of communications Jonathan Grella.

Impressive Rookie Year

Williams, a fourth-round pick from Syracuse, may have been the steal of the 2010 NFL draft.

He was considered a first-round talent, but his stock dropped because he left the Syracuse team with three games to play after missing curfew for the second time in 2009.

Williams was the first player in the Bucs’ 2010 class to sign with the team, agreeing to a four-year deal worth about $3.15-million on June 4 so he could begin preparing for his first pro season. He made a quick impression on the Bucs in rookie minicamp and was a starter in the regular-season opener against Cleveland. The 6-foot-1, 212-pound Williams led all rookie receivers with 65 receptions for 964 yards and 11 touchdowns, breaking Joey Galloway’s club record for receiving TDs. In fact, Williams is the first rookie to have double-digit touchdown receptions since Randy Moss in 1998.

That performance earned Williams a spot on the Sporting News All-Rookie NFL team. Williams also is one of five finalists for the Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Year award.

Statute Violated: 316089(1) Severity: INFRACTION
Statute Description: FAIL TO DRV IN SINGLE LAN

We continue to be amazed at the commercialization and profit-centered efforts turning law enforcement into an industry. These efforts include: DUI Arrest contests; private jails; grants; private cameras; or having property seized and sold at auctions. The grants for enforcement are for their efforts against drugs (usually marijuana/cannabis) and driving under the influence. The private cameras placed are placed on public lands generating millions for out-of-state entities at the expense of those ticketed, arrested.

The incentive to arrest first came to our attention when we noticed expensive equipment being awarded by public and private organizations to police agencies that met certain targets for traffic law enforcement. We have written about DUI arrest contests repeatedly.


Let us help you 813.222.2220

 

More Disturbing DUI Arrest Contests

We have written about these disconcerting DUI arrest contests in Florida cases repeatedly:

Arrest Contests Continue

One Largo DUI officer has won money for Pinellas DUI Arrests. As attorney W.F. Casey Ebsary has previously reported, various organizations continue to pay awards for criminal charges of DUI.

Florida DUI Contest Winners

Before you believe that Florida DUI officers do not have an incentive for DUI arrest, there was a recent DUI Award Banquet Honoring Florida Highway Patrol giving away equipment worth tens of thousands of dollars.

DUI-Arrest Contest Rules and Prizes

DUI Attorney on Florida’s West Coast just uncovered the “rules” for a recent DUI Arrest Contest. The awards are characterized as DUI enforcement equipment, some of it valued at thousands of dollars. As a Criminal Defense Attorney, I am not …

Police Are Taking Vehicles

DUI Florida Vehicle Forfeited – $17,000 Appeals court rules on forfeiture of a vehicle following a conviction for felony driving under the influence.

Florida DUI Vehicle Forfeiture

Appeals court rules (in a case where W.F. ”Casey” Ebsary, Jr. was not the attorney of record) that forfeiture of a vehicle following the conviction for felony driving under influence DUI / DWI constituted a punishment. The court found that the loss of the defendant’s vehicle was subject to a proportionality analysis. Conclusion: Forfeiture of $17,000 vehicle was not grossly disproportionate to defendant vehicle owner’s repeated DUI and related offenses.

Source: 34 Fla. L. Weekly D787a

When Vehicle Forfeiture for a Florida DUI is a problem, Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer, W.F. ”Casey” Ebsary, Jr. is here to help. Call Toll Free 1-877-793-9290.


Let us help you 813.222.2220
DUI News

DUI Arrest Contest Rules and Prizes

W F Casey Ebsary Jr

A Florida DUI Arrest Contest has been uncovered, revealing a program where law enforcement agencies are rewarded based on their DUI enforcement activities. The program offers various prizes, including DUI enforcement equipment valued at thousands of dollars, and even a chance to win a fully equipped vehicle for agencies reaching the Platinum or Gold levels. The scoring system assigns points for different activities such as hosting DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols, with cash awards attached to each level. The controversial program raises concerns as it appears to incentivize arrests and may impact the objectivity of DUI enforcement efforts.

Let us help you 813.222.2220

Florida DUI Arrest Contest Rules and Prizes
Florida DUI Arrest Contest Rules and Prizes
DUI Arrest Contest
Rules and Prizes

Rules and Prizes

DUI Attorney on Florida‘s West Coast just uncovered the “rules” for a recent DUI Arrest Contest. The awards are characterized as DUI enforcement equipment, some of it valued at thousands of dollars. As a Criminal Defense Attorney, I am not aware of a single other crime where rewards are given based on arrests. The stakes are high for the contestants as one prize is, “one fully equipped vehicle” Just in case the Florida DUI cops are embarrassed by our uncovering this scam buried deep in their website and decide to take it offline,  we have placed a Copy of the DUI Arrest Contest Rules here.

The Rule book opens like this:

“The Florida DUI Sustained Enforcement Program supports this goal by rewarding agencies for conducting high visibility DUI enforcement operations. The FDOT Safety Office has established an incentive program with four levels of participation. Each law enforcement agency can select the level of participation that fits its manpower availability. The Law Enforcement Liaison Program will collect monthly reports filed by the participating agencies, determine what participation level each agency has met at the end of the calendar year, and provide access to an online equipment catalog. Agencies can select DUI enforcement equipment based on the participation points that they have earned directly from the online catalog.”

Florida DUI Arrest Contest Rules and Prizes

Scoring System:

Conduct/Host DUI checkpoint:                       100 points
Saturation Patrol:                                              20 points
Attend Checkpoint hosted by other agency: 10 points
Platinum 6000 DUI Enforcement Activity Points Earned
Gold         4000 DUI Enforcement Activity Points Earned
Silver 2000 DUI Enforcement Activity Points Earned

Bronze 1000 DUI Enforcement Activity Points Earned”

The “points” actually have a cash value that our investigation uncovered:
Platinum Level Award $15,000
Gold Level Award         $10,000
Silver Level Award          $5,000
Bronze Level Award        $2,500

They even have a lottery type “drawing” for other prizes:

In addition to the regular program rewards, all agencies that qualify at the Bronze or Silver levels will be eligible for a random drawing for a laser speed measuring device. All agencies that qualify at the Platinum or Gold levels will be eligible for a random drawing for one fully equipped vehicle to be used exclusively for DUI enforcement by the winning agency.

Let us help you 813.222.2220

Caught Up in Their Game? Call Casey at 813-222-2220

Executive Summary

Recently discovered is a Florida DUI Arrest Contest, shedding light on a program where law enforcement agencies receive rewards based on their DUI enforcement efforts. The program offers significant prizes, including high-value DUI enforcement equipment and the opportunity to win a fully equipped vehicle for agencies achieving Platinum or Gold levels. The scoring system assigns points for various activities, such as hosting DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols, with monetary awards tied to each level. This program, however, has raised concerns about potential biases in DUI enforcement, as it seemingly incentivizes arrests and may impact the impartiality of law enforcement efforts in this regard.

 
Source: http://www2.dot.state.fl.us/duisustainedenforcementinitiative/Utilities/Help/Help.aspx
DUI News

DUI Arrest Contest Trophy?

W F Casey Ebsary Jr

DUI , DUI Arrest, DUI Arrest Contest
DUI Arrest Contest Trophy

Arrest Contests for DUI

DUI Attorney Lawyer  noticed this was parked outside of the Hillsborough County Courthouse in Tampa, Florida this morning. This is an outrageous scenario and there are few, if any, other crimes that give out trophies for arrests (not even requiring convictions). Ironically the Championship DUI vehicle was parked right outside of a County Courtroom where jurors were reporting for duty this morning.

Here are  some good jury questions:

Hey Champion, do you have to give back the SUV if we acquit this defendant for DUI?

How many people do you arrest for DUI to win an SUV?

DUI Arrest? Call Casey 813-222-2220

 

DUI Patrol Vehicle
Photo Credit: DUI Attorney Lawyer
Photo Credit: DUI Lawyer Attorney 
DUI Patrol Vehicle 
Photo Credit: DUI  Defense Attorney Lawyer
DUI Attorney, DUI Lawyer, DUI Arrest Contests