The district attorney in San Francisco charged Darrius Heyward-Bey, the wide receiver for the Raiders, with driving under the influence of alcohol a month after the player was arrested on the Bay Bridge. Tony Tram, the spokesperson for CHP, stated that Heyward-Bey was driving negligently and speeding on the lower deck of the bridge in his Range Rover.
Blood Alcohol Level not Yet Revealed
An officer with the California Highway Patrol noticed the player’s vehicle was weaving and pulled him over. Heyward-Bey then had to take a field sobriety test, which showed that the alcohol level in his blood was more than what the law permits. The officer charged him for drunk driving and released him later. Police officials refrained from releasing Heyward-Bey’s blood alcohol level at the time of arrest. Ivan Golde, Heyward-Bey’s attorney stated that the level was very low. He also mentioned that Heyward-Bey has been a model player in the NFL. Stephanie Ong Stillman, the district attorney’s spokeswoman stated that citations for misdemeanor require the accused to spend six months (maximum sentence) in jail.
Raiders Taking the Issue Very Seriously
Following the incident, the Raiders made a statement that the team is taking the issue very seriously and that it is gathering all the details required to take a step in the right direction. According to Ivan Golde, Heyward-Bey’s attorney, the player will plead not guilty when he appears for a court hearing on May 31st. He clarified that as the case proceeds, they will contest the charges based on what the investigations reveal.
Bey in Good Form from Last Year
In 2009, the Raiders surprised fans when they chose Heyward-Bey as the seventh overall draft. One of the illustrious wide receivers who preceded him was Michael Crabtree. In the first few seasons Heyward-Bey suffered from injuries, as a result of which he was not in good form. However, since last year, the player has impressed many with his performance on the field.
Christopher Morales is an experienced San Francisco Criminal Lawyer. For expert advice from a DWI DUI Lawyer San Francisco CA on a case, contact us.
