Bay Area Race Car Driver Arrested on Suspicion of DUI While on the Track

A 64-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of DUI. While this story is not surprising, the catch is that the man is a race car driver who was competing at the Ocean Speedway in Watson,CA.

According to reports, Leslie Charles Hunter was competing at the Watsonville Ocean Speedway when the other drivers complained that he was driving recklessly. While drivers do occasionally make these remarks about fellow sober race car drivers, Hunter’s driving was reportedly bad enough that Highway Patrol Officer Jacob Gonzalez investigated the potential DUI. Reportedly, even spectators were concerned about Hunter’s reckless driving.

“There were complaints that Leslie Charles Hunter was driving recklessly while driving in a race at the speedway around 8:20 p.m., officer Jacob Gonzales said.

Gonzales, who responded to the complaint, said he found Hunter in the pit area of the venue after the race.

Hunter had just completed a race, Gonzales said. Witnesses said Hunter’s driving forced other drivers off or to the side of the track.”

After Gonzalez investigated, Hunter was arrested on suspicion of DUI and driving with a blood alcohol level over 0.08 percent. He has been booked into the Santa Cruz County Jail. No one was injured during the race.

Consequences of a DUI Arrest in South Carolina:

If you are over 21 and you are convicted of DUI, your blood alcohol level (BAC) will be used to dictate the severity of your sentence for each type of offense (first DUI offense, second DUI offense, etc.).  Keep in mind that the fines set forth below will more than double when you add in court costs and fees.

Consequences associated with a driving under the influence conviction are determined by:

• the charge of a first DUI, second DUI, third DUI, or subsequent offense;
• your blood alcohol level (the higher your BAC, the stiffer the penalties);
• your agreement or refusal to take a chemical test, such as a breathalyzer (if you refuse, you will lose your license for 6 months, unless you request an administrative suspension hearing);
• minors being in your vehicle; and
• your involvement in a DUI accident.

NOTE:  Your DUI defense also plays a key role in determining the final consequences.

Actual DUI penalties, based on the factors above, include:

• A suspended or restricted license
• Mandatory jail time or imprisonment
• Ignition interlock device
• SR-22 insurance>
• Fines ranging from $400 to $10,000
• Community service
• Felony conviction
• Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program (ADSAP)

The Strom Law Firm Can Help with DUI Charges

If you face DUI charges, whether it is your first charge, or felony DUI, you could feel alone and afraid. Just because you have received DUI charges does not automatically mean that you are guilty. The attorneys at the Strom Law Firm have helped people who face DUI charges since 1996. We offer free, confidential consultations so you can discuss the facts of your case with impunity. Contact us for help today. 803.252.4800