People is reporting that prosecutors have recommended Richie Sambora be charged with DUI and child endangerment – both as misdemeanors – after he was found driving under the influence with his daughter and another child in the vehicle on March 25th.
Last week, Laguna Beach Police handed over the case to the Orange County Calif. District Attorney’s Office, which has not announced any formal charges yet.
“Because the case is under review, I can’t discuss the details,” DA spokeswoman Farrah Emami said “Ultimately, we have to base our decision on the available evidence.”
If Sambora is formally charged with both misdemeanors, a jail sentence is likely, legal experts say.
“Assuming Sambora was driving with over a .08 blood-alcohol level with a passenger under 14 in the car, he’s looking at probable jail time,” says veteran DUI lawyer Lawrence Taylor, who’s not involved with the case. “But it’s possible this can be plea bargained to a lesser offense, and/or he could get rehab in lieu of jail.”
As sad as it is – both charges are fitting. Richie and other parents who drink and drive need to know that there are consequences. He is lucky no one was hurt.
Photo by: Brian Ach / WireImage via PEOPLE.COM
