Assemblyman's California DUI Arrest Raises Question of Double Standard

When a politician or celebrity is arrested for driving under the influence in California, they do not always receive the same treatment as any other California driver. In fact, many are never even taken to jail. This preferential treatment has caused many to ask if there is a DUI double standard.

In the most recent high-profile California DUI arrest, Assemblyman Martin Garrick was simply cited and released by California Highway Patrol. As reported by KCRA.com, many are angered that he was not taken to jail, as is customary in most California DUI arrests.

"There are circumstances where we do not book individuals because of extenuating circumstances," Adrian Quintero, a CHP officer, told KCRA when asked about Garrick's arrest. The officer's statement is valid--when a California DUI suspect has certain medical conditions or has injuries that require hospitalization, they might not be taken to jail. This is fairly common following a California DUI accident.

However, in the case of Garrick, he was not injured. He was simply cited and released to another licensed driver, which is far more uncommon. Quintero explained, "They sign a document agreeing to take care of the DUI at a later date. The other thing is they lose is (their) driver's license. We suspend that driver's license right there on the spot."

It is not clear what "extenuating circumstances" were involved in the arrest of the assemblyman, which raises the argument of a double standard in high-profile California DUI cases.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for driving under the influence in California, it is imperative to consult with an experienced California DUI attorney who can help you navigate the California DUI criminal process.