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Hernando Today

What Will It Take Before DUI Is Taken Seriously?

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 29, 2008

After reading the article concerning the teacher "Owns Up to DUI," I began to doubt that Hernando County takes driving under the influence seriously. Mr. Mockler did not "own up" to the DUI. He simply pleaded guilty to a lesser charge that will never reflect a DUI in his record.

The arresting deputy did his job getting this impaired driver off the roadway as he was a danger to the public. In his possession were two kinds of prescription medicine. One charge was dismissed and completing the pre-trial intervention program for the felony charge of possession of Oxycodone, it will also be wiped from his record. Mr. Mockler has essentially gotten off the hook.

According to Mr. Mockler, "everyone drinks and drives." I take this comment as he doesn't take driving under the influence seriously. Since Hernando County has just reinforced that with its decision to pretty much throw the entire case away and settle for a reckless driving charge. What Mr. Mockler has learned from this is that it is OK to drive while under the influence and be in possession of controlled medication. Now, Mr. Mockler is back in the classroom teaching our young children. Would you want Mr. Mockler teaching your children?

According to Mr. Mockler's attorney, Mr. Brown, you must consume alcohol to be impaired. I pose a question. Can prescription medication impair your ability to operate a vehicle? Yes. Apparently Hernando County agrees with Mr. Brown. Mr. Brown also stated: "Everything worked out beautifully and the way it should be." Of course it worked out beautifully; his client was not convicted of a felony or a DUI. The county folded its hand to Mr. Brown.

What is it going to take for Hernando County to take driving under the influence seriously? Does the family member of a commissioner, judge or prosecutor need to die or become seriously injured by an impaired driver before this county takes it seriously?

Charles Branigan

Brooksville

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