A recent change in the impaired driving laws resulted in an Estevan man getting a higher fine on his first charge for driving under the influence, due to his elevated blood alcohol level.
Tien D. Do was charged Jan. 19 for driving with a blood alcohol level over .08. Crown prosecutor Ali Shah noted Do had no prior history, and asked for a minimum sentence of a $1,500 fine and a one-year driving prohibition.
Judge Michelle Brass considered giving Do a lower fine of $1,200, but Shah interjected, pointing out that the new law requires a minimum fine of $1,500 for a blood alcohol level in excess of .120.
Shah then explained the details of the case, saying that police noticed a vehicle leaving a liquor store and conducted a traffic stop. Noticing a strong smell of alcohol about him and bloodshot eyes, policed demanded a roadside test, which Do failed. He then blew samples of .130 and .130.
The judge asked Do if he was employed. He responded he was self-employed, and was a single parent with a 20-year-old son, who was sitting in the back of the courtroom.
Noting her hands were tied, Brass imposed a $1,500 fine and a one-year driving prohibition. She gave Do six months to pay the fine.
