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Atlanta Criminal Defense Lawyers > Blog > DUI > Miami-Dade County Commissioner Arrested for DUI

Miami-Dade County Commissioner Arrested for DUI

When you choose to run for political office, and you are elected to the position you were seeking, it is important to remember that the same laws apply to you as to your constituents. No political figure is above the law and, in fact, some are held to a higher standard than the average person.

Miami-Dade County Commissioner Jose “Pepe” Diaz discovered this when he was arrested for DUI in Key West. According to reports, Diaz was pulled over by police for speeding while driving his motorcycle. The police report filed by the arresting officer stated that Diaz had an odor of alcohol on his breath and his speech was slurred.

A police body camera video recorded Diaz saying, “There goes my political career.” Diaz is currently serving his fourth term as the commissioner for District 12.

It is not unusual for political figures to remain in office after being arrested for a crime on the premise that one is presumed not guilty until proven otherwise. Whether Diaz will be asked to step down if he is found guilty remains to be seen. What is certain, according to a statement released by Diaz, is that the commissioner will navigate the legal process “just like anyone else facing similar charges.”

Right or wrong, we place politicians and public figures on a pedestal. Any time a public figure is arrested, we cannot help but be disappointed. That should not lead us to presume, however, that Diaz is guilty before being proven so.

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