Arizona Criminal Defense Attorney Blog

Tempe, AZ a City under Assault with Crime

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 15:17:20 -0700

Assault and related victim crimes carry the most severe penalties of all crimes in Arizona

Violent crimes continue to plague Tempe AZ, especially on, and near Arizona State University (ASU). Tempe Police reported #911 and other calls for help had increased by 97 percent in 2012 over 2011, and arrests in criminal incidents continue to rise in 2013.
Incident reports and service calls for criminal violations in and around ASU are taxing Tempe and ASU Police resources.

Police report that the type of crimes that have increased include violent crimes, assaults, binge drinking, underage drinking, disorderly conduct, and criminal property damage. At least two deaths this year were reportedly linked to violence between fraternity rivals, while many others were seriously injured. Many of these are crimes against victims and carry the harshest sentencing of any crimes in Arizona.

Tempe officials are proposing ordinance changes making it easier to crack down on off-campus parties, while local police agencies seek out and making arrests for underage drinking laws, assaults, and other violent crimes.

Assault Crimes may be charged as Misdemeanors under A.R.S. 13-1203 or Aggravated Felonies A.R.S. 13-1204, depending on circumstances and nature of the offenses.

A person may be found guilty of misdemeanor assault in Arizona if they do one of the following:

(1) Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly injure someone else's body;
(2) Intentionally give someone else a reason to fear they will be harmed;
(3) Knowingly touch another person in order to provoke, injure or insult the person.

Misdemeanor assault may be punished with up to one year in prison and maximum fines of $2,500. You may also have to pay restitution to the victim.

A prosecutor may elevate a misdemeanor assault to an aggravated (felony) assault charge in eleven different circumstances. Felony aggravated assault carries significantly greater penalties than misdemeanor assault. For example, felony aggravated assault may be punished with 15 years of imprisonment, as well as the stigma of a felony conviction, loss of a professional license, ineligibility to own or possess a firearm and many other harsh consequences.

A few of the eleven circumstances in which a defendant who is 18 years old or older may be charged with aggravated assault include those where he: causes "serious bodily harm", uses a weapon or dangerous instrument, enters a private home with the intent of committing the assault, assaults someone who is 15 years old or younger, or assaults people of certain professions while they are working (including teachers, nurses, prison officials, fire department members, and paramedics).

Felony aggravated assault may also be charged if someone commits one of the forms of simple assault described above and also intentionally or knowingly prevents "the normal breathing or circulation of blood of another person by applying pressure to the throat or neck or by obstructing the nose and mouth either manually or through the use of an instrument", and a domestic relationship exists. In other words, this special type of aggravated assault can be charged against someone who attempts to strangle a domestic partner.

A few weeks ago, the Court of Appeals ruled on a case involving both simple assault and aggravated assault. In the case, a couple was arguing via text messages. When the male partner came home, he grabbed the woman, knocked her head, and squeezed her neck. Later he pressed his arm against her throat and told her to leave.

The male partner was charged with aggravated assault for strangling her, simple assault for knocking her head, and also for trying to stop her breathing a second time. The jury convicted him of the first and last charge. He was sentenced to eight years in state prison.

The defendant appealed on the grounds that the charge of aggravated assault related to strangulation was unconstitutionally vague (among other reasons). He claimed that nobody in Arizona could know what the statute meant by "normal" breathing or circulation and he referred to the state's own expert who testified that it was difficult to say what "normal" breathing was, even in medicine.

The defendant also argued that his due process rights were violated because all three forms of simple assault were included within the aggravated assault charge. He further argued that the jury should have been instructed as to which type of assault he had committed.

The appellate court explained that even though "normal" is a relative term, it is not unconstitutionally vague. Plainly read, the statute prohibits stopping another person's normal or typical breathing. The court also explained that this type of aggravated assault is a unique offense, not just another variation on the eleven circumstances that turn simple assault into felony aggravated assault. Ultimately the court affirmed the defendant's sentence.

In many cases, these crimes have been serious and resulted in felony charges. Penalties are severe if convicted. Criminal penalties can include jail or long term prison sentencing; large fines, fees, assessments; restitution; counseling, probation, or community services, victim restitution, and other court ordered penalties. But the consequences are much broader than criminal penalties. A student may be suspended or expelled from school or athletic teams, lose scholarships, residency status as a US Citizen, termination from their job or lose opportunities for future employment, become ineligible for school loans, and have a criminal record, lose driving privileges, and lose other rights that they currently enjoy.

US Supreme Court Rules No Warrant Needed to Collect DNA if Arrested

Sun, 09 Jun 2013 13:55:16 -0700

Impact of Maryland v. King Ruling on Arizona: What it gives and what it takes.

Privacy rights were outweighed by law enforcement interests in the United States Supreme Court's June 3rd ruling in Maryland v. King. In this case, the Court was divided 5-4 over the question of DNA sample collection. All states and the federal government require convicted felons to submit DNA samples to law enforcement. But this was the first case to look at whether even those who are merely arrested (and assumed innocent until proven guilty) can be required to submit their DNA to law enforcement.

The Supreme Court ruled that states may--without a warrant-- routinely collect DNA samples from people arrested for a "serious crime." This was a highly anticipated ruling because it is the Court's first on the privacy of genetic information. The ruling focused on Maryland's law, which requires DNA sampling of those arrested for serious crimes, supposedly for the purpose of identifying them. However, the case's language was so broad that it opened the floodgates for all states to permit DNA sampling of people arrested, even if they are arrested only on a minor charge.

The case arose from a criminal defendant's appeal after he was convicted for a felony only because the Maryland police were able to match his DNA in a federal database. After the defendant was arrested for assault, the police swabbed the defendant's cheek to get a DNA sample and they submitted the sample to a federal DNA database. The swab was not necessary to prove the assault.

The federal database to which the sample was submitted matched the defendant's DNA to DNA collected from a crime scene six years earlier. Because of the routine cheek swab, the defendant was convicted of the earlier serious crime.

The Maryland Court of Appeals threw out the defendant's conviction on the grounds that a cheek swab violated Fourth Amendment rights against illegal search and seizure. Usually the State must obtain a warrant if it wants to conduct any kind of invasive physical testing. The State appealed the appellate ruling.

The Supreme Court's majority opinion, written by Justice Kennedy, compared DNA sampling of the arrested to fingerprinting which is legal. The Court overturned the Court of Appeals. Justice Kennedy wrote that states could collect DNA from people arrested for "serious offenses."

The majority opinion reasoned that Maryland's law supported the well-established and legitimate governmental interest of identifying people in custody as opposed to solving crimes. The majority also reasoned that a cheek swab is minimally intrusive from a physical perspective.

Justice Scalia, joined by three liberal justices, wrote the dissent. He warned, "As an entirely predictable consequence of today's decision, your DNA can be taken and entered into a national DNA database if you are ever arrested, rightly or wrongly, and for whatever reason."

This ruling impacts all people in states that authorize DNA testing, including Arizona. At present, Arizona's law enforcement is able to collect DNA from anyone imprisoned for a felony offense, including those on probation. However, Arizona has also passed legislation to allow for the collection of DNA from those who are merely arrested, not convicted, of a serious crime.

This group includes those who are arrested for certain sexual offenses, burglary, prostitution, and other serious, violent or aggravated offenses. Although this group represents a relatively narrow number of criminal defendants now, as Justice Scalia pointed out the Supreme Court's ruling is broad enough that states could widen the net of people who are required to submit to DNA sampling. As Justice Scalia suggests, in the future, DNA sampling may be part of police booking procedure even in traffic cases.

Additional Resources

DNA Laws Database
Mesa Police Department
Mesa Municipal Court

"Remaining Silent" under the Fifth Amendment Should Not Infer Guilt

Fri, 31 May 2013 10:42:16 -0700

No "substantial penalties" can be imposed as a result of exercising their Fifth Amendment Rights

Most people know they have a Fifth Amendment right not to be forced to incriminate oneself. This right encompasses not only the right not to speak about something that might lead you to actually admit to wrongdoing, but also the right to not have the court infer that your silence is itself an admission of guilt.

No substantial penalties can be imposed as a result of exercising your Fifth Amendment right. Moreover, if a defendant chooses to remain silent during sentencing, his silence is not to be taken as either an admission or a lack of contrition. However, if a defendant chooses to express remorse during sentencing, his statement can be used by the sentencing judge as a mitigating factor--a reason to be more lenient.

In an appellate case heard earlier this year, the rule against self-incrimination was applied to the issue of how a defendant's silence can affect sentencing. In that case, the defendant (a woman) was on trial for major felony charges and was convicted.

Before sentencing, the trial judge said he would not put her on probation because the probation officer had reported she would not make statements about her offense during the investigation. Therefore, the probation officer had concluded she would not be able to participate in any counseling or treatment diversion program which required frank communication.

The defendant appealed, arguing that the trial court had improperly sentenced her to a two-year prison term instead of placing her on probation or suspending the sentence. In her view, the prison term violated her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination because it punished her refusing to talk about the details of her case with a probation officer.

The appellate court explained that in this case the defendant was neither entitled to probation nor to have her sentence suspended. Probation was a sentencing alternative, rather than a right. These were matters over which the trial court had discretion. Appellate courts give deference to the trial judge's opinion about what seems necessary to rehabilitate a defendant.

The appellate court reasoned that a sentencing court was not prevented from considering a defendant's silence regarding the offense in determining whether he or she could be rehabilitated through probation. In this case, the trial court had grounded its assessment in the probation officer's report as to her unwillingness to talk about the offense even for purposes of rehabilitation.

The appellate court found that the sentence imposed was among those available by statute and therefore could not be considered a "substantial penalty" for silence or exercise of a Fifth Amendment right. The defendant in the instant case had relied on a Fifth Amendment case. In that case, a probationer was not required to answer certain polygraph questions because the court ruled he was entitled to assert the Fifth Amendment with respect to questions that could implicate him in future criminal matters.

The court reasoned that even a probationer would be required to answer questions relating to a past offense for which he was given probation. The defendant had refused to answer questions and had not intimated they might incriminate her in future criminal proceedings.

Additional Resources

Arizona Sentencing Chart
Maricopa County Criminal Procedures

Will Tough Arizona DUI Laws Get Even Tougher?

Thu, 23 May 2013 10:36:38 -0700

How National Agency's Recommendations Will Impact Arizona Drivers

Arizona has tough DUI laws. They may get tougher, but not by much. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), an independent federal agency, recently recommended, among other things, that the blood alcohol threshold be dropped from .08 BAC to .05 in all 50 states. Those drivers whose blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08 are presumed under Arizona and other state laws to be impaired.

The NTSB is an investigative agency. It doesn't have the authority to institute the changes. It is up to the Department of Transportation whether it wants to endorse this recommendation or not. States will each have to decide whether to accept the recommendation from NTSB. If the NTSB gets support from the Department of Transportation and other states, they will be closer to Arizona's current policies against drunk driving.

The American Beverage Institute (ABI) and the National Restaurant Association (NRA) took offense to this recommendation. They believe that a lower BAC targets moderate drinkers in addition to drivers who are actually drunk. A representative of ABI said, "Moving from 0.08 to 0.05 would criminalize perfectly responsible behavior."

ABI points to research indicating that less than 1% of over 32,000 traffic fatalities in 2011 were caused by drivers with a BAC between .05 and .08. Moreover, those with twice the current BAC (a BAC of .15 or higher) cause more than 70% of the drunk driving deaths.

NTSB argues that the research shows you start to be impaired in cognitive and visual abilities around .05, not. 08. This increases the likelihood of a serious crash. Most countries seem to agree, since they have BAC limits at .05 or lower.
But NTSB, an independent federal agency, said research shows most drivers suffer impairment of cognitive and visual functions like depth perception at a BAC level of 0.05, increasing the risks of a serious crash. According to the agency, the risk of having an accident increased substantially at .08.

More than 100 countries have BAC limits set at 0.05 or lower, according to the agency. According to another source, the U.S., Canada, and Iraq are among the small group with a BAC threshold of .08. Most European countries, most South American countries and Australia have set their BAC levels for purposes of assessing drunk driving to .05.

A representative of the AZ Governor's Office of Highway Safety has stated that this new federal law won't affect Arizona, claiming Arizona has "Not only the toughest laws in the country, but the toughest enforcement in the country." He believes this extends to Arizona's policy on driving while using drugs, too.

Arizona has passed a number of laws that are harsher than the DUI laws in other states. Among them is a law that says even if motorists have a blood alcohol level below .08 they can be cited if they are impaired.

A recently passed law requires first time DUI offenders to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in their car or other vehicle for six months. An IID requires a driver to pass a breathalyzer test before being permitted to start the vehicle. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the number of drunk driving fatalities has dropped 46% since 2007.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• NTSB Safety Report on Eliminating Impaired Driving
• Arizona DUI Laws
• Arizona MADD.org

Drowsy Driving v. DUI Charges: Facts, Prevention and Criminal Defense

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:34:07 -0700

Driving drowsy isn't a crime. But it can lead to other serious vehicular offenses including DUI or reckless endangerment.

The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Center for Disease Control (CDC) have released reports about hazards of "drowsy driving". Both of these are high risk behaviors that can result in serious injury or death involving auto accidents.

While drowsy driving is not a crime itself, it could lead to the commission of serious vehicular crimes such as DUI charges, reckless endangerment, aggravated assault, or vehicular homicide.

Warning signs of both driving drowsy and DUI are often similar in nature. Drowsy driving can lead to DUI charges, even if a person was not in fact, impaired to the slightest degree due to intoxicating alcohol or drugs.

How to avoid Drowsy Driving

• Recognition of warning signs and prevention;
• Get adequate sleep. Drivers should ensure that they get enough sleep (7-9 hours)
• Be aware of increased risks such as commercial driving, long shifts or nightshift work;
• Seek medical attention for untreated sleep disorders;
• Do not drive while under the influence of sedating medications;
• Do not drink spirituous liquor prior to or while driving;
• Take precautions and prepare for days or nights of long distance driving such as getting extra rest and sleep before driving;
• If you are a high risk driver due to your work hours, arrange for alternative rides home with a friend or family member, bus, taxi, or other trusted and responsible person.
• If you are in a high risk group for driving get enough rest and sleep before and after your shift.
• If you are driving and unexpectedly find you are driving drowsy, pull over in a safe place will lit location; preferably a rest stop or motel if possible, to sleep until you are feeling alert enough to drive again.

Warning Signs of Driving Drowsy

• Frequent yawning;
• Frequent blinking;
• Difficulty remembering the past few miles you drove;
• Missing planned exits;
• Drifting from one's lane;
• Hitting rumble (wake-up) strips;
• Staring or tunnel vision;
• Inability to remember recently past road signs;
• Drifting or weaving across lanes without realizing it.

DUI v. Drowsy Driving

The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) researchers identified at least 100 driving cues that have been found to be associated with a Drunk Driving, or impaired. The signs or driving behaviors identified were presented and separated into four main categories:

• Weaving or drifting, and problems maintaining proper lane position;
• Speeding or difficulty braking when needed;
• Vigilance problems such inattentiveness;
• Difficulties with Judgment and decision making skills

Many of these signs are displayed by motorists who are driving while drowsy or tired. As result, a police officer could mistakenly suspect that a driver is under the influence of intoxicating alcohol or drugs. If the officer has probable cause to conduct a DUI blood test and trace compounds of a drug defined under Arizona law, in the person's system, they are at risk of a DUI. Further if a person had only one drink of intoxicating liquor, which did not result in driving impaired to the slightest degree, they could be mistakenly determined to be driving impaired. A non-underage 21 person will be forced to defend their charges in court, even though they were driving drowsy and not impaired due to blood or alcohol.

DUI Defense Attorney for Charges in Gilbert AZ

If you have been arrested for DUI, or any vehicular criminal offenses in Arizona, you should retain a qualified and experienced criminal attorney to defend your charges. DUI laws and penalties are among the harshest in the country. Your criminal defense lawyer will defend your charges, and protect your rights. There may be defenses you are not aware of that could lead to a dismissal of charges or other favorable outcome in your case.

Additional Resources:

• Gilbert Arizona Traffic and DUI Unit

• Gilbert AZ Criminal Court Processes

• DUI and Drowsy Driving - Laws and Criminal Defense in Arizona

• National Centers for Disease Control - Drowsy Driving Report January 2013

• National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Tempe Police Announce DUI Task Force for St. Patrick's Day Festivities

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 14:11:43 -0700

Tempe Police warn drivers to plan ahead.

Tempe Police Department announced this week that it will be working in cooperation with Scottsdale Police, Maricopa County Sheriff's Department, and the AZ Governor's Office of Highway Safety in a joint DUI Task Enforcement. It is scheduled to take place surrounding the 2013 St. Patrick's Day festivities, beginning Sunday March 17, 2013.

A command post will be set up at the Tempe Fire Training Facility located 1340 E. University Drive in Tempe AZ. The major cross streets are University Drive and Dorsey Lane, between Rural Road and McClintock Drive. Mobile Patrol units will increase presence throughout Scottsdale, and Tempe neighborhoods and city streets.

The increased enforcement is being funded as part of generous $7.5 million grant to police agencies throughout Arizona, by the Governor's Office of Highway Safety. The Governor announced last month that she is focusing on joint efforts to enforce, educate, and engineer safer roads throughout the state, and reduce fatal and serious accidents caused by impaired driving.

A majority of the funds are being allocated for DUI enforcement, patrols and checkpoints which include specialized detection equipment and vehicles. The remaining amounts will be allocated towards education and media efforts.

DUI Trends in Tempe AZ

Tempe Police reports both drunk driving and drug DUI arrests near ASU spiked upwards to 44 percent over the last two years. They reported 1,695 DUI arrests in 2011 and 2,439 coming from 2012. A large number of these arrests were made for youth or underage 21 drinking.

Another upward crime trend along with Tempe DUI charges has been the number of fake IDs confiscated by police. In 2012 approximately 1,800 fake IDs were seized from persons at local Tempe Businesses. The police expect this to decrease the number of DUI arrests in 2013.

ASU Police will be working closely with Student Judicial Affairs Office, ASU Off-Campus Student Services, and Tempe Coalition to Reduce Underage Drinking and Drug Use to combat the problems.

Criminal Defense for Underage DUI or Underage 21 Drinking

Underage 21 drinking or Underage DUI charges are classified as criminal offenses. They can expose a person to jail terms; suspension or denial of driver's licenses for up to two years; probation; fines, fees, substance abuse screening, education or counseling, use of Ignition Interlock Device on the vehicle you drive, and other penalties. Other consequences may result from a conviction including loss of job, suspension from organized sports, school, or adverse impacts in US residency. If you are charged with any type of DUI or criminal violation you should always consult a qualified criminal defense attorney before pleading guilty. They will discuss you matter with you and provide you with defense options. If retained, they will provide a defense, and protect your rights throughout the criminal justice process.

Additional Resources:

• Tempe DUI Task Force Command Post Location for St. Patrick's Day Enforcement

• Tempe AZ Criminal Court

• Tempe Police Department Announcement

• Arizona DUI Laws

• Arizona Underage 21 Drinking and DUI Laws

Defenses for Disorderly Conduct Charges in Arizona

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 13:53:22 -0700

Why Disorderly Conduct Charges are often challenged and dismissed

"Disorderly Conduct" is also known as "Disturbing the Peace". There are a number of offenses under Arizona Criminal Code A.R.S. 13-2904 that fall within the classification of Disorderly Conduct. These are among the most successfully challenged criminal offenses due to their vague and sometimes biased nature.

By law the police must have "probable cause" to make an arrest. And although they may feel that the arrests meet the standards for probable cause that a crime occurred, the charges are often disputed and unjustified. For example, police often issue charges of Disorderly Conduct when they are annoyed with a person, and no other criminal charges apply to their conduct.

Disorderly Conduct charges are often seen coupled with other criminal charges such as domestic disputes or domestic violence, assault, resisting arrest, and other serious felony criminal offenses.

Under A.R.S. 13-2904 in Arizona, a person may be guilty of disorderly conduct if they intentionally and with knowledge disturb the peace of a neighborhood, business, person, gathering, meeting, or procession. Behaviors that fall within this code include but are not limited to fighting; serious, violent or disruptive behavior; public belligerence; unreasonably loud noise music, or laughter; use of abusive or offensive language; use of offensive gestures to anyone present that will likely provoke immediate physical retaliation; refusal to obey a civil or lawful order to evacuate or disperse issued to maintain public safety in emergency; or reckless handling, display or discharge of a gun or deadly weapon.

Criminal defenses include but are not limited to violations of constitutional rights including right to free speech, and gathering peacefully; insufficient evidence; lack of eye witnesses, lack of biased witnesses; or conflicting witness testimony; justification defenses; and failure of the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a criminal offense occurred.

Most are charged as Class 1 Misdemeanor in Tempe AZ call for 30 days in jail if convicted. If the behavior involves reckless handling, display or discharge of a gun or other deadly weapon, they are charged as Class 6 Felonies. All felonies in Arizona expose a person to prison terms sentencing and other harsh penalties. Other penalties include fines, fees, assessments, costs, probation, community service, and court ordered anger management counseling.

You should always consult a criminal defense attorney if you face disorderly conduct charges in Arizona, to discuss your options for defense. Defenses may apply that can be used to challenge due to lack of evidence, and justification. But your chances of a dismissal increase substantially if you are represented by a qualified criminal defense attorney.

Additional Resources:

• Tempe Police Investigations Unit

• Disorderly Conduct in Arizona

• Arizona Revised Statutes

• Arizona Sentencing Chart 2012 - 2013

• Tempe Municipal Court

Phoenix to Conduct Largest Gun Buyback Program in City's History

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 11:52:35 -0700

The Mayor of Phoenix AZ recently announced plans for the largest Gun Buyback Program to be held in May 2013. It is being funded by an anonymous donation of $100,000.00.

A Gun Buyback Program is an organized jurisdictional effort to compensate gun owners in return for their guns. The goal is to take unwanted guns off the street so that they are not a threat to police officers or residents of the communities.

Here are some facts that have been released about the program:

• It will be conducted every Saturday in May, excluding Memorial Day weekend;

• Sessions will be held in various different parts of Phoenix in church parking lots or other trusted locations;
.
• Anyone can drop off a weapon anonymously. City officials announced that no questions will be asked regarding the source of the firearm or it's possessor;

• The owner will receive an unknown amount to be determined at a later date for the weapon;

• The Phoenix Police will check to see if the firearm was stolen. If so, it will be returned to the rightful owner;

• If the weapon was used in a criminal offense, it will be retained by police to be used an investigation.

• All other firearms will be taken out of circulation.

More details will be released as May approaches. For more information a person can contact *Arizonans for Gun Safety at 602-547-0976.

Criminal Defense Attorney Phoenix AZ

Gun offenses are very serious crimes in Arizona. Convictions under A.R.S. 13-3102 Arizona criminal code call for harsh penalties, many of which are felonies. All firearms used in the course of conducting or fleeing from a crime are felonies, and call for aggravated sentencing of the initial crime. Felony convictions call for a minimum sentence of 1 year in prison, and loss of the right to possess a gun, and classify the person as a Prohibited Possessor under the Arizona gun laws.

If you have been arrested for any weapons crimes under Arizona you should always consult a criminal defense attorney before pleading guilty to charges. If retained, they will protect your rights, defend your charges, and make every effort to get a good outcome in your case. There may be constitutional rights that were violated, or other defenses that may be used to resolve the matter favorably on your behalf.

*The Law Office of James Novak is a criminal defense firm serving clients in the Phoenix area. It has no affiliation with Arizonans for Gun Safety or the Phoenix Police Department.

Additional Resources:

• Phoenix Buyback Program

• Arizona Gun Laws

• Arizona sentencing for serious, violent or aggravated offenses

• Phoenix Police Department

• Phoenix Superior Court

Rights to Confront Your Accuser in Criminal Charges

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 13:56:20 -0700

The correct way to confront your accuser as afforded under the 6th Amendment of the US Constitution.

Your Legal Rights to Confront Your Accuser or Witness

A defendant has many rights under the State and US Constitution. The 6th Amendment of the US Constitution affords the accused of the right to confront their accuser or witnesses against them.

Under the Arizona State Law A.R.S. 13-114 (3) a person is afforded the right to confront witnesses against them, in a criminal case, as prescribed by law.

It should go without saying, that this does not mean a person has right to physically or directly confront a person, outside of the criminal justice process. It means that a defendant has a right to confront witness against them as part of legal proceedings. This is the most commonly and effectively done through cross-examination of a witness in trial, through the defendant's criminal defense attorney. It involves questioning the witness regarding their testimony.

If these rights are violated, it may lead to suppression of the eyewitness identification or testimony. Violation of this right may lead to suppression of the witness testimony being used as evidence against a defendant.

Challenges to Witness Testimony

The Six Amendment also protects a defendant from being found guilty of a crime, based on "hear say" testimony. Some questions regarding admittance of evidence for example "here say" testimony, the parties may negotiate or decide the matters during evidentiary hearings, or conferences. If the Prosecution and Defense are in disagreement regarding the validity of a particular witness testimony, the judge may rule on whether or not it may be admitted.

Other factors may invalidate a witness statement or prove them less than accurate, before or during trial. Validity of a testimony may be compromised due to such external factors including: influences by other people; obstruction of a witnesses view; length of time that has elapsed since the incident and the testimony; confusion; reduction of recollection of the incident by the witness; unbiased nature of the witness; lack of proper lighting to see the witness; inattention of the witness during the incident, distractions or noise surrounding the witness; stress and other circumstances. In these cases, the defense lawyer may file a motion to suppress that the invalid testimony or identification, from being admitted so that it may not be used against the defendant.

Nonetheless, other material evidence should be always be used to increase the validity of witness identification or testimony. Material evidence may include such things as photographs, surveillance video, fingerprints and DNA comparisons.

Burden of Proof

In absence of a "guilty" plea or conviction, a defendant is guilty until proven otherwise by a court of law. In order to get a conviction, the State of Arizona and Prosecution must prove "beyond a reasonable doubt" that a defendant is guilty of committing a crime.

If the prosecution wishes to use a witness statement or identification against the defendant, their defense attorney will usually examine this identification or testimony to confirm its validity. If the witness identification or testimony raises reasonable doubt due to invalidity, it may lead to suppression of this evidence, and in some cases, a dismissal of charges.

Criminal Attorney for defense of criminal charges in Mesa AZ

Any criminal charges in Arizona can potentially be serious. You should always consult a qualified criminal defense attorney before pleading guilty to any criminal offense. Although you may have been arrested, you are still presumed innocent by law. You have the right to hire a lawyer to defend your charges. If retained, they will protect your rights; make sure you are treated fairly, and defend the charges against you. This will increase your chances of getting a favorable resolution in your case.

Additional Resources:

• The 6th Amendment of the Constitution

• Arizona State Legislature - Right to Witness Confrontation

• Arizona State Legislature - Presumption of Innocence

• Arizona Rules of Evidence - Recent Amendments

• Mesa AZ Municipal Court

AZ Drug DUI Arrests Increase in 2012

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 09:05:34 -0700

"Use of Prescription Medication an Epidemic and DUI hazard"

The National Center for Disease Control (CDC) describes use of prescription medication as an epidemic and the fastest-growing drug problem in the Country. It is said that more teens are using prescription medicine than cocaine, meth and Ecstasy combined.

Final numbers are still being tallied from police agencies throughout Arizona. But preliminary statistics for 2012 indicate Drug DUI arrests are expected to jump from 11% in 2011 up 14% in 2012 of all DUI arrests in Arizona.

Officials attribute this to increased funding for specialized police drug detection and impairment training such as Arizona's Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Program. Police Agencies are now using state of the art equipment, and are well trained for Drug DUI enforcement. For example, Gilbert AZ Police Department, is equipped with mobile DUI enforcement vans; unmarked vehicles; special DUI motor cycle enforcement units; granted allowances for overtime; and training and certification to police officers in phlebotomy DUI processing.

Other contributing factors for the increase in Drug DUI arrests are frequency of use and access to prescription drugs by adults, and youths.

At this juncture, there are no published statistics as to how many of the Drug DUI arrests were Marijuana related. So no assumptions can be made as to whether or not legalization of Medical Marijuana in Arizona contributed to the increased Drug DUI Arrests.

Arizona Drug DUI Laws

Under A.R.S. 28-1381 in addition to alcohol DUI laws, it is also unlawful to drive or be in actual physical control of a vehicle in Arizona, if a person is impaired to the slightest degree due to the influence of any drug; vapor releasing toxic substance or any combination of liquor, drugs or vapor releasing substances. This includes legal, or illegal drugs, or Medical Marijuana. It also includes drugs obtained with a valid prescription or any over-the-counter drugs. This means that a person can be cited for DUI if they have had no spirituous liquor at all, but are driving impaired to being under the influence of a drug.

A first or second DUI with no aggravated factors in Arizona is a Class 1 Misdemeanor. This includes drug related DUI charges. Penalties are generally the same or similar as sentencing for alcohol related DUI charges. If convicted penalties call for 10 day jail terms; mandatory substance abuse counseling; fines, fees, and other harsh penalties. Jail terms may be reduced to 24 hours, upon successful treatment of an alcohol or substance abuse program.

Criminal Defense Attorney Gilbert AZ

Motorists are not aware that a drug may impair their ability to driver. But in Arizona, it is not a defense for a motorist to claim that a driver was aware that drug had the potential to impair their driving or not. If you have been arrested for any type of DUI, your future and freedom are in jeopardy. You should a qualified consult a criminal defense attorney who defends charges in the city where you received the citation, to discuss your matter, and defense options.

Additional Resources:

• Arizona State Legislature - Drug DUI Laws

• Arizona Governor's Office of Highway Safety Annual 2011 DUI Enforcement Statistics

• Arizona Governor's Office of Highway Safety 2012 DUI Enforcement statistics (preliminary to 12/27/12)

• Drug Abuse in Arizona - Office for Children, Youth and Families

• National Center for Disease Control - Prescription Drug Abuse

• Gilbert Police Traffic Unit

Arizona DUI Arrests for 2012 Top 27,000

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 16:35:36 -0700

DUI Task Forces Saturate the State

There was hardly a city in the valley this holiday weekend, not saturated by police patrols. As the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) warned, they were "everywhere".

Following the New Year's holiday 2013, the police reported making 4,371 DUI arrests between November 23, 2012 to January 1, 2013, representing a 7.16% increase over this time last year, and 12% from the year before.

Of the total 4, 371 total impaired driving arrests, it was reported that 1,098 were for Extreme DUI (0.15% or higher BAC), which constitutes over 25% of all impaired driving arrests.

Drug related impaired driving arrests totaled 934 which represented 21.3% of the total.
Aggravated DUI (Felony) totaled 450 or 10.2% of all impaired driving arrests.

The average DUI Blood Alcohol Content level was 0.15% the Extreme DUI, with the legal limit being 0.08%.

This year the state pooled their Law Enforcement resources to create a super DUI task force for the Thanksgiving through New Year's Eve holidays. The large valley-wide DUI task force was 2,247 officers strong from 70 Police Agencies.

The state reported that overall DUI arrests for 2012 totaled 27,710.

In 2011 a total of 18,916 impaired driving arrests resulted from DUI task forces reported by Arizona Governor's Office of Highway Safety (AZGOHS).

Many are attributing this increase to the fact that there was a higher police presence and DUI task forces demployed throughout Arizona during the year. The AZGOHS provided grants and funding for Cities and Counties. With this, it enabled law enforcement agencies to increase their presence; work overtime, and make more police stops in 2012.

The Arizona Republic reported that there were 787,946 police stops from January 1, 2012 to January 1, 2013. It is unclear how many of those stops were for suspicion of DUI.

Criminal Defense Firm Gilbert AZ

A DUI conviction can have devastating impacts on your life. The laws and penalties in Arizona are among the toughest in the Country, even for first offenders. DUI convictions call for jail terms; fines, fees, and assessments; impound of your vehicle; ignition interlock device on your vehicle; and drug or alcohol counseling. Felony DUI charges call for prison terms and other increased penalties. And it doesn't stop there. For some it can mean loss of their job or future job opportunities, deportation, and other adverse impacts that can last a lifetime.

If you were arrested for any type of DUI, you should consult an experienced criminal defense attorney well before your first court appearance. You should retain a qualified and effective DUI lawyer who can protect your rights and defend your charges.

There may be defenses that you are not aware of, that may enable you to obtain a favorable resolution in your case. Even though you were arrested, you still have the right to retain an attorney and defend your charges. You should always invoke your rights to this due process under law.

*Statistics updated January 4, 2012

Additional Resources

• DUI Arrest Statistics by Calendar Year AZGOHS

• Gilbert Police DUI Units

• Gilbert Municipal Court

• State Legislature - Arizona DUI Laws

• Arizona Republic

Disorderly Conduct Charges: Why they are often challenged and dismissed

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 08:53:54 -0700

Disorderly Conduct also known as "disturbing the peace", is one of the most common criminal offenses. In 2011, police made 17,537 arrests for this offense in Arizona, making it the 4th most common offense in the state.

Most are charged as Class 1 Misdemeanors, which carries a jail sentence. But depending on the circumstances, may be charged as Class 1 felony which exposes a person to harsh prison sentencing.

Disorderly Conduct laws cover a wide range of criminal conduct, which many perceive it as a "catch-all" offense. Others consider it a last resort charge, in those cases where police are annoyed with a person, and have no other applicable charges for which to cite a person. It is often coupled with other offenses such as assault, domestic violence, unlawful discharge of a gun, or resisting arrest.

Disorderly Conduct charges are often vague in nature, making it one of the most challenged criminal offenses in court. Often the suspect was acting within the order of their Constitutional Rights. They are often dismissed for the following reasons:

• Insufficient evidence;
• Lack of consistent credible witness statements;
• Violations in Constitutional Rights;
• Affirmative or Justifiable Defenses were successfully argued.
• Inability of the prosecution to "prove beyond reasonable doubt" that the crime was committed.

A.R.S. 13-2904 Disorderly Conduct Laws

A person is guilty of Disorderly Conduct, if, with intent to disturb the peace and quiet of a neighborhood, person, family, or business, other public or place, with knowledge of doing so commits the following:

1) Engages in fighting, violence or seriously disruptive behavior; and includes public drunkenness resulting in disorderly behavior;
2) Makes unreasonable and disruptive noise; or
3) Uses abusive or offensive language or gestures to against another that is likely to provoke immediate physical retaliation by that person; or
4) Makes commotion of long duration; verbal or physical display with the intent to prevent transactions of a business, lawful gathering, meeting, or procession; or
5) Refusing to comply with a lawful order to disperse for any of the following purposes:

• To maintain public safety;
• If they are within the dangerous proximity to a fire, or other hazard;
• Any other emergency as deemed necessary by civil local, or state officials, or criminal law enforcement entities.

These offenses will be charged as Class 1 Misdemeanors, and expose a person to jail, and other penalties.

A person will also be guilty of Disorderly Conduct if with intent and knowledge, displays or discharges a firearm, other deadly weapon, or dangerous instrument. This offense will be charged as a Class 6 Felony, exposing a defendant to prison, and other harsh penalties.

Criminal Defense Attorney for Disorderly Conduct in Tempe, AZ

Disorderly Conduct charges are not always justified, are often vague in nature. For these reasons criminal defense attorneys can often get them dismissed. You should never plead guilty before consulting an experienced criminal lawyer about your matter. If retained they will evaluate your case and determine what defenses may be used based on your circumstances. They will tell your side of the story; protect your rights; defend your charges; and work to get you the best possible outcome in your case.

Additional Resources:

• Disorderly Conduct Laws

• Arizona Department of Public Safety - Crime Statistics 2011

• Tempe Police Department - Resources

• Tempe City Court

Methamphetamine (Meth): The overshadowed truth

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 11:38:05 -0700

Arizona remains a hub for Meth crimes. Get the facts. Know the consequences..

Throughout 2012, Marijuana laws, and offenses capitalized the news media, and social websites. However, there are other dangerous, illegal drugs, and controlled substances that continue to be used, possessed, manufactured, and transported in Arizona. One of the most dangerous of them is Methamphetamine. .

Almost monthly in 2012 we learned of large and small operating Meth rings and labs discovered in some alarming places. Meth Busts took place in residential homes, where children reside; offices; and mobile lab units. Arrests are frequent, and Arizona prosecutes offenses related to it, egregiously. Meth is classified in Arizona as a "Dangerous Drug". Crimes involving them are prosecuted egregiously. Convictions of any Dangerous Drug offense carry prison terms.

Methamphetamine (Meth) Facts:

Meth is a highly addictive and dangerous drug. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, ingesting even small amounts of methamphetamine (Meth) can result in adverse symptoms such as irregular or rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, and hyperthermia. Long-term abuse of Meth may include anorexia; severe dental problems and gum disease; anxiety, confusion, insomnia, behavior and mood changes that include violence and hostility. Serious and Chronic methamphetamine addictions may result in psychosis; paranoia, hallucinations, disturbing delusions. Overdosing may lead to convulsions, heart failure, stroke, other organ failure, and death. Chronic addiction to Meth has proven to lead to of infectious diseases such as and HIV/AIDS hepatitis B and C due to IV use or high risk behaviors.

Meth may be found in pill, or powder form. Crystal Meth is formed in glass fragments or bluish-white rocks. It has many common street names including but not limited to "Crank", "Crystal", "Glass", "Speed", and "Ice", just to name a few.
Methamphetamine may be obtained through importation by "super labs" or dealers outside the USA; they are also manufactured here in the USA in large or small labs. In Arizona they are often found in ordinary residential neighborhoods, businesses, and in mobile labs.

Meth is illegal in Arizona. Crimes include use, possession, transport, sales, or administration. It also has been known to lead to other criminal behaviors such as theft, burglary, robbery, assault, and other violent crimes.

Arizona State Meth Laws and Penalties

It is illegal in Arizona, and considered a "Dangerous Drug" by Definition (A.R.S. 13-3401) and strict laws pertain to possession, use, sales, transport or administration (A.R.S. 13-3407).

Dangerous Drugs are prosecuted by the state egregiously. Meth is also illegal under Federal Law. It is categorized as a Schedule II stimulant under the Controlled Substances Act. Schedule II Stimulants are recognized as having high abuse potential, with limited medicinal uses in the medical community.

As a border state Arizona is has experienced heavy trafficking of Meth into the country. The Maricopa County Sheriff's office has used Meth-task-force organizations to monitor the desert skies by aircraft along desert corridors. Other police efforts have included aircraft drone surveillance; under cover informants; special camouflage equipment; night vision resources; and community outreach programs to help combat the Meth problem in the valley.

Criminal Defense for Meth Crimes

If convicted, all Meth crimes are classified as Felonies, and generally carry harsh prison sentencing. If you were arrested for a drug crime you still have the right to defend your charges and retain a criminal defense firm on your behalf. If retained, an experienced criminal defense attorney will evaluate the evidence; defend your rights; determine if it is weak or unjust; determine if your rights were violated; and if there are any defenses that can be used to get a favorable resolution to your charges.

Additional Resources:

• Arizona State Legislature - Meth Defined as Dangerous Drug

• Arizona State Legislature - Dangerous Drug Laws involving Meth

• Arizona Drug Enforcement Program

• Arizona Substance Abuse Treatment Center Index

Arizona Teens Hospitalized for Overdosing on Synthetic Marijuana

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 09:51:25 -0700

Although imitation Marijuana is readily available, it is still illegal to use or sell in Arizona

Synthetic Marijuana Facts

On Thursday November 23, 2012 local media outlets reported three incidents of synthetic Marijuana poison by high school students from two different schools in Southern AZ. Two of the students were sent to hospital emergency rooms.

Synthetic Marijuana or Imitation Marijuana is a chemically engineered cannabinoids substances or plant material that is said to produce a high similar that of Marijuana if smoked or ingested.

Arizona is in the majority of states in the country that prohibit use, sales, production, and distribution of synthetic marijuana products and other illegal substances.

This is because they have proven to be dangerous, causing severe illness, resulting in emergency hospitalizations, and fatalities. The National Institute on Drug Abuse compares the effects in some cases to poisoning. Health effects include severe anxiety, nausea, vomiting, heart problems, tremors, seizures, hallucinations, paranoia, psychotic episodes, and other serious medical conditions.

According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers incidents of poisonings, and poison control emergency calls increased 50% from 2010 (2915) to 2011 (5741) and continued to increase for 2012.

Despite Health alerts and warnings by Local, State, and Government Agencies, synthetic marijuana continues to be sold and used. Brands marketed and sold as something other than fake or synthetic Marijuana. They may be found under the popular names of:

• "Herbs";
• "Incense";
• "Spice";
• "K2,";
• "Blaze
• "Red X Dawn"

They are usually labeled as Incense and have the words "Not for Human Consumption". They are readily available, and can be purchased at marijuana shops, other retail outlets, and even some convenient stores.

AZ Synthetic and Imitation Drug Laws

Synthetic Drugs are defined under Arizona Law Imitation Substances or Drug Offenses
A.R.S. 13-3451 and include:

• Controlled substances;
• Counterfeit preparations;
• Imitation controlled substances;
• Imitation prescription-only drug;
• Imitation over-the-counter drug

Arizona Laws A.R.S. 13- 3456; 13- 3457, and 13-3458, prohibit use of imitation or synthetic controlled substances; prescription drugs; and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs;

Violations of these laws will result in Class 2 Misdemeanor criminal charges.

Class 2 Misdemeanor charges expose a person to four months in jail; probation; substance abuse education, counseling and treatment; up to $750.00 fines; fees, and costs.

Arizona laws also apply to sales, manufacturing, or distribution of synthetic or imitation drugs under A.R.S. 13-3453; 13-3454; 13-3455; and 13-3459.

Violations of any of these laws will result in Class 6 Felony charges and expose a person to more severe sentencing including prison terms and exorbitant fines.

Arizona Marijuana Laws

Marijuana use, sales, production, and distribution is prohibited under Arizona law A.R.S. 13- 3405, and includes synthetic Marijuana as described in A.R.S. 13- 3401 Drug definitions.

Charges are classified as felonies. The classification of the offense and severity of the offense depends on the quantity of the drug found in a person's possession as well as other factors.

Criminal Defense for Marijuana and Synthetic Marijuana Possession

Many users are misled by the fact that the imitation drugs are readily sold over the counter. However, it is a criminal offense to use, sell, produce or distribute Synthetic Marijuana. If you face any Marijuana drug charges you should consult a criminal defense attorney regarding your matter. If retained, they will make sure your rights are protected; you are treated fairly; and defend your charges. There may be defenses you are not aware of that can lead to dismissal of charges; reduction of sentencing or other favorable resolution in your matter.

• Arizona State Legislature Title 13 Imitation Substance or Drug Offense

• Arizona State Legislature Title 13 Classifications for Use of Synthetic Drug Charges

• National Institute on Drug Abuse

• US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

The US Supreme Court to Hear Landmark DNA Evidence Case

Sat, 10 Nov 2012 16:12:34 -0700

The Verdict could have national impact on when law enforcement can collect DNA evidence from suspects.

On November 9, 2012, the United States Supreme Court agreed to hear a criminal DNA testing case, Maryland v. King (12-207), which could result in nation-wide impacts. The defendant's DNA samples were collected immediately following his arrest. He was subsequently convicted of rape. King's Attorney attempted to suppress the DNA evidence, on the grounds that it was taken unconstitutionally. The Maryland Court of Appeals agreed, and overturned King's conviction. They ruled that suspects under arrest but not convicted, have more rights than convicted felons; and that DNA testing was more invasive than standard finger print evidence.

The State of Maryland disagreed, and appealed to the US Supreme Court to hear the case. The case is expected to be heard by the high court in June 2013.

DNA testing has been the subject of much controversy. Objection to the DNA testing of non-convicted suspects is that it is in violation of a person's 4th Amendment Constitutional Right against unlawful search and seizures.

All states currently use DNA testing as an admissible investigative tool. Currently it is lawful in most states, including Arizona, to collect report and distribute DNA results for convicted felons. However, not all states allow collection, analysis, reporting, distributing, and use of DNA testing as evidence against first time criminal offenders, with no felony convictions.

DNA Testing Laws in Arizona

Arizona allows collection, reporting and distribution of DNA evidence from prison inmates and convicted felons. Criminal DNA samples are maintained by in a forensic data base by authorized Law enforcement agencies, and indexed by the FBI.

However, in recent years, Arizona also passed legislation allowing DNA to be collected from suspects who were arrested, but not convicted of a felony in specific situations.
Under Arizona Law A.R.S. 13-610 DNA may be collected from a suspect if they were arrested for serious, violent, and dangerous felony offenses on involving a victim.

The law allows for DNA testing in situations where the suspect was arrested for a criminal offense specified by law, even if they were not convicted of the crime. Examples of these offenses include but are not limited to sexual offenses and assault; burglary in the first or second degree; homicide; and other dangerous offenses involving victims.

Criminal Defense for Charges involving DNA cases

Anyone arrested for a serious or dangerous crime, should always consult a criminal defense attorney before pleading guilty. Felony convictions for these types of crimes, will result in years to life in prison, or even expose a defendant to the death penalty. A defendant should always invoke their right to retain qualified legal representation to defend their rights and charges. If DNA evidence was collected unlawfully it may lead to suppression of the evidence in favor of the defendant. If DNA evidence does not lead to a match of the suspect arrested, the charges may be dismissed or lead to a "not-guilty" verdict in a jury trial. The lawfulness or validity of DNA evidence should always be argued by a qualified criminal defense attorney.

Additional Resources:

• Arizona State Legislature

• Arizona State Bar - Jury Instructions for Evidence

• United States Supreme Court - Maryland v. King

• US Supreme Court Orders - Petition Granted Maryland V. King, Alonzo J. (12-207)