Pharmacist’s OVI Reduced to Reckless Operation

A local pharmacist was pulled over by an Upper Arlington police officer on suspicion of speeding and a marked lanes violation. While coming to a stop, the pharmacist struck the curb. That triggered the police officer’s suspicion that the driver might be impaired.

The officer alleged that when he spoke to the pharmacist, he noticed a strong odor of alcohol and slurred speech. He asked her to submit to a standard field sobriety test. She performed poorly and was arrested immediately on suspicion of OVI. Her case was then scheduled for arraignment in Upper Arlington Mayor’s Court.

There are a lot of consequences anytime someone is convicted of OVI in Ohio. There’s the possibility of jail time, significant fines, and a driver’s license suspension. But for a professional such as a pharmacist, there can be additional consequences for professional licensing. This woman may have faced action from the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy if convicted of OVI. Her career was in danger.

The pharmacist knew she needed help, and called the attorneys with LHA of the Columbus Criminal Defense team from the police station. We advised her not to submit to any additional chemical testing by the police. He also contacted the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy to try to pre-empt any negative consequences for the pharmacist’s professional license.

Then, we called the prosecutor prior to the pharmacist’s arraignment to talk about a plea. Despite evidence that would have worked against the pharmacist if the case had gone to trial, we were able to reach an agreement with the prosecutor to have the charge reduced to the non-alcohol related charge of reckless operation. The pharmacist was able to avoid an OVI conviction and any repercussions from her employer or the pharmacy board.

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