Head Coach of Atlanta Hawks Arrested on DUI Charges
Mike Budenholzer, the head coach for the Atlanta Hawks, has been arrested by the Georgia State Patrol for DUI, or driving under the influence.
According to reports, a trooper stopped Budenholzer at about 10:30 PM on Wednesday, August 28th, in Midtown Atlanta because the Audi A8 he drove did not have its tail lights on.
Trooper Johnathon Nelms wrote in his report: “As I spoke with him, I noticed that he had bloodshot and watery eyes and a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath … I asked Mr. Budenholzer how much alcohol he had and he advised that he had one glass of wine to drink prior to driving.” Reportedly, Budenholzer finished the glass of wine about 15 minutes before getting into the car.
Budenholzer refused a breathalyzer, so Nelms issued a field sobriety test, and when Budeholzer failed it, he was taken into custody on charges of DUI.
Nelms did note that Budenholzer was polite, although his speech patterns were mumbled, slow, and slurred.
“As I spoke with him I noticed that he had bloodshot and watery eyes and a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath,” Nelms wrote in the report.
On Thursday morning, the Hawks released a statement from Danny Ferry, president of basketball operations and general manager: “Bud made us aware of the situation last night. We are in the process of gathering more information and will have further comment at the appropriate time.”
Budenholzer was a long-time assistant coach with the San Antonio Spurs, and was named head coach for the Atlanta Hawks on May 29th.
Penalties for First DUI Offense:
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.
If your BAC is between .08% and .09%:
- Jail sentences for a first DUI can range from 48 hours to a maximum 30 days, although community service can be given in lieu of jail time.
- Fines can range up to $400, plus court costs and fees.
- You will additionally lose your driver’s license for six months.
If your BAC is between .10% and .15%:
- Jail sentences for first DUI charges can range from 72 hours to a maximum 30 days, although community service can be given in lieu of jail time.
- Fines can range up to $500, plus court costs and fees.
- You will additionally lose your driver’s license for six months.
If your BAC is .16 or higher:
- Jail sentences for first DUI charges can range from 30 days to a maximum 90 days, although community service can be given in lieu of jail time.
- Fines can range up to $1,000, and you are required to enroll and successfully complete an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program (ADSAP).
In addition to the above DUI penalties, the court may order ignition interlock devices placed on vehicles driven by the convicted driver for a specified period of time. The ignition interlock device measures BAC and prevents the car from starting if the driver tests positive for BAC. Generally, however, only repeat offenders or felony DUI offenders receive ignition interlock devices.
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
