DUI laws are tough in California, as they should be for many reasons. One would assume that police officers who enforce these laws would have a deep understanding of the dangers involved with driving under the influence of any type of substance that impairs judgment. Unfortunately, it appears that a deputy with the Sacramento County sheriff’s department made the same type of mistake that many others make recently when she crashed her private vehicle into a Starbuck’s, injuring two people.

According to the Sacramento Bee:

“An off-duty Sacramento County sheriff’s deputy arrested for driving under the influence after slamming her vehicle into a Starbucks on Sunday morning has been using prescription painkillers for years following several on-the-job injuries, law enforcement sources said Tuesday.

Sacramento police allege that Gargano, a 37-year-old patrol deputy, was driving under the influence of prescription drugs when she lost control of her sport-utility vehicle and plowed into the Starbucks near Arena Boulevard and Duckhorn Drive.

A woman in her 80s was injured in the crash and taken to a hospital with moderate injuries, police said. A Starbucks employee suffered minor injuries.

Gargano was booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail on a felony DUI charge, and later released on $60,000 bail.”

Not only does the suspect face serious criminal liability, but the situation could also give rise to substantial civil liability for the injuries inflicted on the people and the extensive property damage that resulted from the accident. If you or someone you love has been injured in a DUI crash, you need the help of Sacramento drunk driving accidents attorneys who understand how to properly fight for the rights of the injured. Contact Demas & Rosenthal today to schedule a free initial consultation.