Oklahoma Drug Abuse: Mandatory Evaluation and Assessment Required for Oklahoma DUI Convictions

In 2008 alone, there were 244 traffic fatalities from Oklahoma DUI accidents. Because of the widespread dangers of driving under the influence in Oklahoma, the state vigorously prosecutes DUI and DWI.

Legal consequences of an Oklahoma DUI conviction include jail time, suspension of driving privileges, ignition interlock, and fines. The severity of the sentence depends on a number of factors, including whether the DUI arrest is a first or subsequent offense and whether the intoxicated driver was transporting a minor.

Early in 2010, Oklahoma governor Brad Henry signed Oklahoma House Bill 3240, also known as the Aaron Gillming Act. This bill was designed to strengthen the state’s DUI penalties by requiring alcohol evaluation and assessment prior to sentencing for even first offense DUI. House Bill 3240 takes effect November 1, 2010.

Prior to the passing of the Aaron Gillming Act, alcohol and substance abuse assessment programs were not mandated until a second DUI conviction. According to Oklahoma Representative David Derby, R-Owasso, who authored the bill, “We shouldn’t let such a serious crime happen twice before we take strong action that not only shows them we do not accept drinking and driving, but also helps them recover from alcohol or drug addictions.”

Under the provisions of the Aaron Gillming Act, a driver convicted of DUI in Oklahoma will not have his or her driving privileges reinstated until program recommendations are completed.

The Act was named for Aaron Gillming, a young father killed by a drunk driver in 2008.

Consequences of an Oklahoma DUI conviction include not only legal penalties, but personal ramifications as well. Those convicted of DUI face skyrocketing insurance premiums and the social, professional, and educational difficulties created by the stigma of a criminal record.

Individuals arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated in Oklahoma should contact an experienced Oklahoma DUI defense attorney as soon as possible to maintain their privileges and protect their legal rights.

Ask Sacto 911 crime Q&A: What happened to rapper found with drugs during …

Filed under: Oklahoma Drug Abuse

ANSWER: Vallejo rapper Steven Noel Davison — also known as "PSD," "PSD the Drivah" and "Stevie Dee" — was arrested on federal drug charges July 14, 2008, after he was selected for a security screening as he tried to board a flight to Oklahoma at …
Read more on Sacramento Bee (blog)

MLB suspends Cards farmhand; Shildt talks Wacha's availability

Filed under: Oklahoma Drug Abuse

MLB suspends Cards farmhand; Shildt talks Wacha's availability. Posted on September 6, 2012 by Kary Booher. St. Louis Cardinals farmahand Alan Ahmady, who spent 16 days with Double-A Springfield in August, was hit with a 50-game suspension for testing …
Read more on Springfield News-Leader (blog)

Regulation to safeguard horses hits snag in Ky.

Filed under: Oklahoma Drug Abuse

Lawmakers refused to give their OK on Monday, citing a disagreement among the thoroughbred industry over the controversial proposal. The Interim … The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission had previously approved the regulation that also would set lower …
Read more on Sacramento Bee