Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), lawmakers and New York authorities have succeeded in passing Leandra's Law.
Now, if you are caught driving while intoxicated with a child under 15 years old in the car, you are guilty of an aggravated DWI: a state felony.
In addition, first time DWI offenders will have to buy interlock devices to prohibit drinking and driving in the future.
Leandra's Law
Leandra Rosada, 11, died in a car accident involving Carmen Huertas. Following the crash, Huertas's BAC was tested at 0.11%.
Six other 11-year-old girls were sitting alongside Leandra in the car driven by Huertas. The girls suffered from "spine and skull fractures, concussions and broken arms and legs."
This story was one of many cited by MADD in their campaign to increase the penalty for aggravated DWI.
The New York Times reports that criminals convicted of the offense could spend up to four years in prison.
New York criminal defense lawyers will have to prepare their clients for this new law and increased penalty.
Related Resources:
- New York Criminal Defense Lawyers (FindLaw) occur
- The Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor (FindLaw)
- Are You Eligible For A Clean Slate? (FindLaw)
- Felony Drunk Driving (FindLaw)
- MADD (MADD)
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