Two police officers from Gloucester Township are facing serious but separate charges after being suspected of driving under the influence, according to local sources. The New Jersey officers, aged 29 and 28, have both been arrested for DUI as a result of separate incidents back on July 18. Both officers have been placed on paid leave while an investigation is conducted into their alleged activities.
According to the report filed in Gloucester Township, the 29-year-old was arrested after he allegedly struck a pedestrian around 8 p.m. before striking a parked car. He was given a field sobriety test, which he reportedly failed, and he refused to submit to a breath test. The pedestrian was hospitalized for complaints of back and head pain.
The 28-year-old officer was allegedly driving the wrong way down a one-way street around 2:47 a.m. when he was stopped. Police on the scene said he smelled of alcohol, and he reportedly blew a .24 BAC when his breath was tested. This is three times the legal limit of .08. This officer had previously been convicted for drunk driving back in 2011, though this previous conviction does not constitute evidence in the current case.
DUI is a serious charge for anyone, but especially for law enforcement officers who stand to lose their careers if they are convicted. This is why they will appear in New Jersey criminal court represented by their own criminal defense attorneys. These attorneys will work tirelessly to review the facts of the case with an eye toward building a strong defense for their clients, while ensuring a fair trial process for both accused individuals.