Facebook post gets teen arrested for drunk driving

A recent arrest tied to a Facebook post offers a cautionary tale. Social media users vary on the amount of information they feel comfortable sharing via Facebook and Twitter. A few holdouts still even refuse to set up Facebook or Twitter profiles, but more people seem to lean toward the side of sharing too many details.

Law enforcement has taken note of the increasing comfort many feel posting about all aspects of their lives. In some situations, police are able to solve crimes based on incriminating evidence posted.

Teenager’s post concerns Facebook friends

An Oregon driver posted too much information to his Facebook profile. The 18-year-old was arrested for drunk driving after posting this status update: “Drivin drunk ... classic ⯑ but to whoever’s vehicle I hit I am sorry. :P”

Several of his concerned Facebook friends saw the post and contacted local police. The tip to the police was also through a private Facebook message to one of the local officers. In response to the tip, police located two damaged vehicles and linked the accident to the driver who posted the comment.

The teen was charged with several crimes. After posting such incriminating evidence, it can be hard to pursue any defenses. Even an argument that the post was a joke would not go far when the evidence supports the admission.

When posting on social media, you never know who is watching. Law enforcement agencies across the country and in Illinois are using more public social media content in legal cases. When it comes to social media, think twice before posting, review privacy setting so you know who has access to your content and monitor what appears through tagging.

Illinois underage DUI and aggravated offenses

In Illinois, there is a zero tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21. For instance, expect a summary driver’s license suspension if an underage driver refuses to take a blood-alcohol concentration test or tests at greater than 0.00. The Illinois Supreme Court has stated that the provision provides “youthful drivers an incentive – not found in the DUI laws – to refrain from consuming any amount of alcohol.”

In addition, aggravated charged apply in DUI with injury accident cases. An aggravated charge is a Class 4 felony, possible prison time and license suspension. The Oregon case luckily did not involve an injury, but crashing into another vehicle often can result in injuries.

If you have been charged with DUI, consult a local DUI attorney. An experienced advocate can mount an aggressive defense based on the individual facts of your case.