He was smiling at the time the Tennessee Highway Patrol took his mugshot, but it seems likely that the police officer who lives about three hours northeast of Chattanooga was less amused after he thought about the legal problems he faces after his arrest.
The 43-year-old Rogersville cop was charged with DUI after he apparently crashed his motorcycle and showed signs of impairment when a Tennessee Highway Patrol officer arrived.
The Rogersville officer then refused to perform a field sobriety test and declined as well to submit to a breath test. The THP trooper obtained a search warrant and a blood test was performed.
The legal limit in Tennessee is a BAC (blood alcohol content) of .08 percent.
The officer was suspended from his job without pay after his arrest on charges that include drunk driving, violation of the implied consent law, improper lane usage, possession of a firearm while under the influence and failure to show proof of insurance.
According to a news report, the Rogersville police chief said the officer’s suspension will last until his criminal charges have been resolved.
While his legal problems are significant, the officer also has some difficult career challenges ahead. Because he reportedly violated the implied consent law, his driver’s license will be revoked for a year.
It is unknown whether he will be able to function as a police officer without a license.
Those facing similar legal and career complications as a result of a drunk driving arrest should contact a Chattanooga attorney experienced in DUI defense.
