A Judge in Jonesboro, Georgia set a high bond for former Atlanta Hawks guard Daron "Mookie" Blaylock this Tuesday - $250,000. The large bond comes after the Judge announced her intention to protect the community from a habitual DUI offender, noting that Blaylock's DUI history revealed six previous DUI arrests. Blaylock is currently facing several charges for his current arrest, including second-degree vehicular homicide when he was involved in an accident that killed a local woman in late May.
Prosecutors had been pushing for Blaylock's bond to be set at $500,000, as his criminal record showed DUI arrests in 1996, 2009, two in 2010, 2012, and another earlier this year. The Judge expressed her apprehension with his record, stating that when a person gets more than two or three DUIs, it warrants concern. She also added that she believed "DUIs are vehicular homicides that didn't occur."
And vehicular homicide, in addition to other charges, is what Blaylock faces now. If convicted of second-degree vehicular homicide – a misdemeanor in which death is caused "without an intention to do so" and occurs without negligent driving or a DUI offense – Blaylock can face up to a year imprisonment under Georgia law. While Blaylock has a lengthy DUI rap sheet, with many reports stating that some of the All-Star's past DUI charges were reduced to less serious offenses, his Attorneys state that the accident was caused by a medical condition that caused Blaylock to black out behind the wheel. The fatal accident occurred on May 31 on Tara Boulevard, roughly 20 miles south of downtown Atlanta.
Multiple DUIs in Georgia
Whatever the particular facts in this case may be, and wherever they may lead to an eventual verdict, the case shows that repeat DUI offenders face considerably harsh consequences. Under Georgia Law, convictions for a second and third DUI within 10 years of a previous DUI conviction will result in increased terms of imprisonment and larger fines. A Fourth DUI offense is considered a felony, and is punishable by imprisonment between one and five years.
In addition to heightened charges and penalties, multiple DUI offenders face harsh, unsavory judgment from society. Potential employers, educators, and others who may conduct background checks view multiple DUI convictions as a red flag, which can seriously limit an individual's ability to gain employment and financial stability. If you or someone you care about has recently been arrested and charged with a DUI with a prior DUI conviction, it is of the utmost importance that you seek experienced, aggressive DUI defense. Learn more about protecting your rights, record, and future by contacting an Atlanta DUI attorney from the Law Offices of Howard J. Weintraub today.