Ben Wallace DUI case takes an interesting twist – NBA Update
Normally, when someone is guilty of multiple crimes, he is likely to end up behind the bars but Ben Wallace; the Detroit Pistons guard might avoid jail time after being convicted of two crimes – Driving under influence (DUI) and
carrying a gun.
Wallace was arrested on Saturday, 24 September, 2011, while driving a SUV capriciously at around 3 am. His blood alcohol level when tested was 0.06 more than 0.08 percent, which is the limit set by the Michigan law. Upon search,
police also found a 28 bore semi-automatic pistol in his stuff.
His case is currently with the 48th district Court Judge Kim Small, a judge, who known to be a nightmare for offenders in drunk driving cases. Small has a reputation of a strict stance on DUI offender and even the first
time offenders don’t escape her wrath in this matter. Her reputation was strengthened about two months ago when she sentenced former NBA star Jalen Rose, a first time DUI offender, to twenty days in jail.
Wallace apparently had his work cut out, but fortunately, he was also convicted of
illegitimately carrying a weapon. The latter is considered as a graver offense and its punishment can be as severe as five years in jail. Consequently, the case also shifts to Oakland Country Circuit Court for such matters. For Wallace, this has proved
to be a blessing in disguise.
"Everybody is saying 'What is Kim Small going to do to him?'" said defense attorney Robyn Frankel, who has handled tons of high profile cases. "She won't be able to do anything to him because she is not going to get to sentence
him."
Wallace case is expected to be accredited to Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Shalena Kumar, who is a complete contrast to Kim Small and is known for his composed and calculated sentences. Wallace could face at most face probation
and a justified fine, now with Shalena handling the case.
Charles Toby, Sylvan Lake defense attorney also acceded "Either by plea or by trial, even if he was convicted, the guidelines are such that I can't envision any prison time or even any jail time."
Wallace however still has to appear before Kim Small this coming Monday where she is expected to fix a date for elementary exam. But, if Wallace’s attorney manages to defer the exam, the case will definitely go to the higher court.
Tags: