Actor Chris Klein to Rehab After Second Drunk Driving Bust
A drunk driving arrest will follow a person around for the rest of their lives. Not only will the suspect’s driving privileges be revoked for up to a year, but the motorist could also face a loss of employment or jail time as a result. While every DWI defense lawyer in Michigan believe that each case is unique, some of the most interesting driving while intoxicated cases to follow are those involving celebrities, including actors or musicians. Just because a person is famous does not mean that they are exempt from the complex and difficult legal system. In fact, celebrities in trouble with the law arguably are placed in a worse situation–in addition to the legal consequences from their DUI arrest, the media tends to be particularly harsh for famous repeat offenders.
Last month, “American Pie” actor Chris Klein, 31, was arrested by law enforcement officials on drunk driving charges. Police allegedly witnessed Klein’s black 1999 Chevy Blazer weave across three lanes of traffic, giving them probable cause to pull him over. In approaching the car, officers immediately noted the smell of alcohol and requested that the actor submit to numerous field sobriety tests–police reports show that Klein’s blood alcohol content was three times the legal driving limit.
Law enforcement officials brought Klein down to the county police station, where he was charged with two misdemeanor counts of driving while intoxicated. According to a representative for the actor, Klein is taking the recent DWI arrest very seriously. As this is his second alcohol-related offense, the “American Pie” star voluntarily checked-in to a rehabilitation facility to get control of his drinking.
However, some advocacy groups are less than impressed by Klein’s behavior. When police officers pulled him over, the actor was driving with his pet dog in the car. It is unlikely that Klein will face additional charges because of this, but animal rights organizations have criticized his actions. “By choosing to drive under the influence with his dog in the car, Chris not only put innocent drivers in danger, but also broke a promise to be a protector and guardian to his pet,” explained a spokesperson for the organization In Defense of Animals.
Klein is set to appear in court for arraignment on July 9th. If the court eventually convicts him of drunk driving, it is almost certainly that harsh consequences will follow. As this is Klein’s second offense, a jury or judge may not look favorably on him, ultimately giving him tougher punishments. However, his proactive efforts to enter rehab and seek help for alcohol abuse shows that he understands the severity of the charges against him, and that he is desperately seeking the tools to stay sober and safe. Despite Klein’s commendable actions, he still could be subjected to jail time as a result of his arrest. For the actor, and others accused of drunk driving, it is essential to seek knowledgeable DWI defense attorneys in Michigan for assistance. Acting quickly will use superior legal advice and legal representation to protect your beloved personal freedoms and liberties.
About the Author
Since 1998, the DWI defense lawyers at Kronzek & Cronkright have provided the best legal advice and legal representation for people accused of drunk driving in Michigan.
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