Florida Deputy Too Drunk to Receive Award from Mothers Against Drunk Driving

 Posted on November 15, 2015 in Uncategorized

A Pinellas County (Florida) Sheriff’s deputy has sent a formal letter of apology to a municipal department police chief for his inappropriate behavior at a conference and awards ceremony hosted by the public interest group Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) earlier this summer. The statewide MADD event was organized to provide training and to recognize individuals for their contributions in the battle against driving under the influence. The deputy was slated to receive an award for making more than 100 DUI arrests, but, in an ironic twist, he was too drunk to attend the ceremony.

An Interesting Day

According to reports, the Pinellas Sheriff’s deputy arrived at the Fort Lauderdale hotel where the even was being held, signed in, and attended a morning session. During the first break, however, he decided the DUI enforcement training was unnecessary for him, as we he was soon transferring out of the county’s DUI unit. Investigators determined that the deputy returned to his room, began drinking, and spent the day drinking cocktails by the pool and playing party games with two other deputies who also skipped training.

As the deputy headed into the banquet and awards ceremony, he encountered Gulfport Police Chief Robert Vincent, who suggested the man should not attend the dinner due to his level of inebriation. The deputy reportedly responded with disrespectful comments toward Vincent, prompting the chief to find one the deputy’s direct supervisors. The supervisor ordered the deputy back to his room. The deputy was subsequently disciplined by the Sheriff’s office with a one-day suspension, and was ordered to send an apology letter to Vincent.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving

The entire event in Fort Lauderdale this summer was hosted by Mother Against Drunk Driving to further the efforts of law enforcement in reducing accidents and injuries caused by driving under the influence. MADD was founded in 1980 by Candy Lightner, a mother who lost her 13-year old daughter Cari when the girl was hit by a drunk driver. Since then, the organization estimates that it has helped to save the lives of nearly 330,000 people through its educational and public awareness campaigns about the dangers of driving drunk.

Legal Help for Your DUI Charge

If you are facing charges of driving under the influence, it is important to enlist the assistance of a lawyer who understands the seriousness of the situation. Contact experienced Joliet criminal defense attorney Jack L. Zaremba and get the hardworking legal representation you need during a stressful time. Call 815-740-4025 today to schedule your free initial consultation.