LAGUNA NIGUEL : Drunk Drivers Must Pay for Arrest Costs
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In a move police say could generate about $48,000 for the city annually, the City Council has voted unanimously to require that drunk drivers reimburse the city for the costs incurred in arresting them.
As a result of the council’s action, motorists under the influence of drugs or alcohol will have to repay the city for the cost of having officers arrest them or go the scene of their accidents.
On average during 1991, each drunk driving arrest cost the city $195 and each accident involving a driver under the influence cost $598 in staff costs, according to a report to the City Council from Joseph Davis, chief of police services. The total estimated cost to the city of responding to such incidents was $48,373 for the year.
Such cost-recovery programs, which are permitted under state law, are not unusual, Davis said, and are in force in other Orange County cities, including Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano.
If necessary, repayment may be made a condition of the defendant’s probation.
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