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Editor: Bob Battle
Profession: DUI Defense Lawyer

The St. Petersburg Times in Florida reports that a top official at the Sheriff's Office of Hernando County, Florida was arrested on DUI charges on July 21 - 10 days after witnesses reported seeing her crash her truck and act in a manner indicative of intoxication at the scene of the crash.

Emily Vernon, the finance director for the agency, is facing a misdemeanor driving under the influence causing property damage charge. She faces up to a year in county prison if convicted.

She was released on a standard $500 bail and will return to work for the time being.

On July 12, shortly before midnight, witnesses say Vernon swerved across the road and struck a road sign before she skidded to a stop. Several drivers followed Vernon and called 911 to report someone driving recklessly who they allege had forced several vehicles from the road before she crashed into the sign.

All of the evidence at the scene pointed to the fact that 39-year-old Vernon was intoxicated. The evidence included her erratic behavior, statements from witnesses, and alcohol found inside the truck. However, it was determined by deputies that they were unable to arrest Vernon because she had not been seen behind the wheel by any of the witnesses.

On July 15, four witnesses came forward claiming to have seen her driving, prompting the Florida Attorney's Office to press charges. These witnesses, all occupants of the same vehicle, initially stopped at the scene, but departed before deputies arrived.