In California, a DUI is a serious charge for any driver, but for a driver with a commercial driver’s license (CDL), it can be even more serious. The first thing to know about a DUI with a CDL is that the blood-alcohol content threshold for a person with a CDL is lower. Instead of 0.08%, it is set at 0.04%. This blood-alcohol content is in effect even when the driver is not in a commercial vehicle. The major consequence of a DUI with a CDL is the suspension of the CDL for at least a year, which can mean job loss.
The Mercury News reports that a bus driver was arrested in Magalia on charges of DUI and child endangerment. The incident took place on Friday afternoon.
At about 4:30 p.m., the California Highway Patrol Chico Communications Center began receiving reports that 33-year-old Desiree Abrams was intoxicated while driving a school bus. The reports came from both students and parents who were on the bus.
According to the reports, Abrams was talking loudly and behaving inappropriately towards students. Students also reported that Abrams smelled of alcohol.
Both the CHP and deputies from the Butte County Sheriff’s Office responded. They were able to locate the bus about 20 minutes after the first reports were received. They made contact with Abrams at the corner of Carnegie Road and Grinnell Court in Magalia.
All of the students had been dropped off prior to the officers making contact with the bus driver. Deputies reported that Adams displayed behavior consistent with intoxication. Once CHP units arrived on the scene, a DUI investigation was started.
Ultimately, it was determined that Abrams was intoxicated. She was taken into custody on charges of DUI and child endangerment.
