Most people are familiar with at least some of the potential consequences of a DUI conviction, but few are aware of all the ways in which such charges can affect various aspects of life. For example, few offenders who live in and around New York City consider the effect that a conviction might have on their immigration status.
According to the New York Immigration Coalition, more than 3 million of the city’s 8.5 million residents are foreign-born. Many of these immigrants left their home countries because America promised a better life; however, that does not mean they don’t face certain trials and tribulations in the United States, too.
The stakes are typically higher for immigrants facing criminal charges because a conviction can lead to deportation. According to ABC7NY, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials recently arrested 24 individuals who had been convicted of DWI.
They made the arrests during a six-day sweep called Operation Secure Streets, which was devised to crack down on driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Law enforcement officials are currently detaining those now in custody pending removal proceedings.
The arrests were made on Long Island, and the individuals who were targeted came from various countries including Ukraine, Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Ecuador, and Brazil. Officials claim the operation specifically targeted immigrants who had been convicted of DWI in an attempt to remove alleged public safety threats from the community.
Some of the individuals in custody had been previously removed from the United States and returned illegally. They will be immediately deported. The rest will have the chance to plead their case before an immigration judge.
If you are facing charges for driving while intoxicated and you’re concerned about the potential consequences, your first call should be to a DWI attorney. Turn to Darren DeUrso, Attorney at Law for comprehensive legal guidance.
Mr. DeUrso has more than 30 years of experience as a DUI lawyer, and he will aggressively defend your rights. Call 914-772-8614 to schedule a consultation with a White Plains criminal defense lawyer.
Does a DWI Conviction Automatically Result in Deportation?
Both immigration law and criminal law are fairly complicated, and when the two worlds collide, it is worth seeking quality legal counsel. Every case is different, but in certain circumstances, a DWI conviction can either prevent you from applying for a green card or result in deportation if you are already a lawful permanent resident. For example, you may be deportable if you already have a criminal record and receive a subsequent DWI conviction.
Fortunately, it is possible to fight charges for driving while intoxicated, even if you think the evidence is stacked against you. If you are facing DWI charges in New York, Darren DeUrso, Attorney at Law may be able to structure a comprehensive defense based on the unique facts of your case.
Call 914-772-8614 to schedule a case evaluation with a DWI attorney in White Plains. If you want to learn more about criminal defense in New York, visit the USAttorneys website.