Drunk driving case against John Maher expunged
State representatives are just like everyone else, right? Some people may not believe so after reading about the drunk driving case against John Maher. A Pennsylvania criminal court closed the case and expunged the record. Is this special treatment, or something that is a possibility for the average Joe?
John Maher has been a public servant for the state of Pennsylvania since 1997. He was charged with drunk driving in June 2017, following an incident in East Pennsboro Township. He had no prior criminal history on his record and was allowed to complete a diversion program. Once completed, the criminal charges were dropped, and the case was closed and expunged.
Drug and alcohol diversion programs are available to first-time, non-violent offenders. This is not special treatment. Anyone who qualifies for it may request it as a way to avoid conviction and any associated consequences. The diversion program is basically a court-monitored rehabilitation process. In Mr. Maher’s case, he had to pay a fee, attend therapy and submit to random drug trusting.
A first-time drunk driving charge does not have to ruin a person’s life. With help, it may be possible to have one’s case moved to a diversion program. At the end of the day, it all comes down to the details of the event in question and if one meets the qualifications for this type of program. If one does meet the qualifications but fails to complete the program, the case will be sent back to criminal court for prosecution. With the assistance of legal counsel, it is possible to protect one’s best interests and fight for the best possible outcome.
Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, “State Rep. John Maher’s DUI case closed, expunged“, Liv Navratil, March 30, 2018