In May 2015, Conor Vesper, a 20-year old college student, was arrested and charged with DUI. After his arrest, although he was still intoxicated, he posted bond and was released. Following his release, he was able to get behind the wheel of a friend’s car. When the police tried to pull him over again, he drove to his house where he took his own life.
In response, Illinois has now passed “Conor’s Law” which will take effect June 1, 2018. This new law provides that when a police officer arrests a person under the age of 21, who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including DUI, the officer is required to make a reasonable attempt to contact a responsible adult who is willing to take custody of the person before his or her release.
The new law also requires the officer to impound the car for a full 12 hours if the officer reasonably believes that a person under arrest for DUI is likely, upon release, to commit another DUI. Presumably, this will apply to a highly intoxicated person under arrest for DUI who has the means to post bond and be released while still intoxicated.
The DUI attorneys at The Davis Law Group, P.C. represent clients across Illinois and the Chicagoland area. Contact us today to discuss your case.