Chester Top Cop Warns of DUI Penalty Increase

Editor's Note:

Chester Township Police Chief Wayne Martini has been sharing public service information with Mendham-Chester Patch since our launch a little over three months ago. Taking the time to explain extra vigilance on texting and driving around school parking lots, the metrics surrounding traffic stops and ticketing reports as well as the philosophy of self policing. Recent blotter activity has shown an increase occurrence of DUIs. Chief Martini would like to bring the public's attention to these laws.

An alarming component of the recent DUI related offenses is the fact that some of those charged have children in the car at the time of the offense. Drivers need to be aware have been new laws enacted in recent years with enhanced penalties for DUI and related circumstances.

• Driving during suspension period:  If a person’s license is suspended for a DUI and they are caught driving two or more times during that suspension, or if they are caught driving while suspended as a result of a second DUI conviction, they can be found guilty of a 4th degree crime.  In addition to a fine, this offense carries a mandatory 180-day prison sentence with no eligibility for parole.
• Driving under the influence with a minor in the vehicle:  If a person is found to be DUI with a minor in the vehicle, they face an additional Disorderly Persons offense, punishable by up to a $1,000 fine and six months in jail. Additionally, they could face Child Endangerment charges with even stiffer penalties.

The Chester Township Police are committed to keeping our streets safe and will use all reasonable measures to detect, apprehend and prosecute drunk drivers to the fullest extent permitted by law.