Case Results
LAST UPDATED 9-1-2010
This list is given for informational purposes only and is in no way indicative of your case outcome. The facts differ substantially in every particular case and the attorneys in our firm will fight for the best possible outcome for you.
DUI With .195 Breath Test and Crash Reduced To Reckless Driving With No Conviction
2009CT005372 (Manatee)
Our client was involved in a crash. Florida Highway Patrol arrived on scene and conducted an investigation. They noticed indicators of impairment and asked our client to submit to a series of roadside field sobriety tests. Our client was then subsequently arrested. After the arrest our client submitted a breath test with a result of a .195, over double the legal limit. AnneMarie Rizzo immediately began her investigation to find holes in the State’s case. AnneMarie ultimately was able to keep the breath test from being used against her client and convinced the Prosecutor to drop the DUI charges to Reckless Driving. In addition to the charges being reduced AnneMarie was also able to convince the Prosecutor to agree to no conviction which allows AnneMarie’s client the ability to seal his record.
Felony Battery on LEO and Resisting Officer with Violence Dropped
2010 CF 003510 NC
Our client was accused of leaving the scene of an accident. When he was confronted by the police he allegedly kicked the deputies and resisted arrest with violence. Our client was charged with 2 felonies which each carried up to 5 years prison time and becoming a convicted felon. AnneMarie Rizzo investigated the case and mounted a defense for her client. Over the course of intense negotiation AnneMarie was able to convince the Prosecutor to drop the felony charges preventing her client from becoming a convicted felon.
DUI Charges Dropped To Reckless Driving In Sarasota With Adjudication Withheld Meaning No Criminal Record
2010 CT2503 NC
The defendant was confronted by law enforcement in front of her home as result of a 911 call. Our client submitted to some, but not all, of the field sobriety exercises and was placed under arrest. She refused the breath test at the jail. David Haenel was retained and set the case for trial. On Monday before trial was set to begin the DUI case was dropped to reckless driving with an adjudication of guilt withheld meaning the defendant will have no criminal history.
4th DUI Reduced to Reckless Driving In Manatee County
2010CT001670
The Defendant was found passed out behind the wheel of his car in the middle of the roadway. The police were called out to the scene and investigated our client. Our client admitted to taking several prescription medications and having a couple of drinks. He was arrested and provided a breath test over the legal limit. AnneMarie Rizzo was able to keep the breath test from being admitted against him in evidence and also was able to convince the Prosecutor that her client was unlawfully arrested. The Prosecutor agreed to reduce the DUI to Reckless Driving. This saved AnneMarie Rizzo’s client from looking at a potential felony conviction, jail and lifetime license suspension.
Charlotte County DUI Dropped to Reckless Driving
10-000651T
The Defendant was stopped for erratic driving. Upon contact the Officer observed indicators of impairment and asked the Defendant to perform field sobriety tests. AnneMarie Rizzo’s client agreed to perform the tests. The officer stated he didn’t perform the tests well and arrested him for DUI. At the jail the Officer requested a breath test where AnneMarie’s client refused. AnneMarie Rizzo was able to gather evidence in her client’s defense and take the sworn testimony of the officer prior to the criminal court proceedings. AnneMarie was able to convince the Prosecutor that they couldn’t use the Refusal of the Breath test against her client. The Prosecutor then agreed to drop the DUI to Reckless Driving.
Charlotte County Leaving The Scene Charges Dismissed
10000502T
The defendant was parked at a restaurant in Charlotte County. Police charged our client with leaving the scene of an accident after an independent witness reported to police that the defendant was involved in an accident in the parking lot of the restaurant and then left the scene without stopping. David Haenel took the case and was able to wotrk with the prosecutor to get the charges dropped.
Sarasota DUI Charge Reduced To Reckless Despite Admission Of Drinking 5 Or 6 beers
2009 CT17330NC
This client was pulled over for what police said was not stopping at a stop sign. Following the stop officers observed that the defendant showed signs of impairment including glassy eyes and an odor of alcohol. There were open Bud Light cans in the vehicle and an 18-pack in the back seat. The defendant admitted to the officers that he had drunk about 5 or 6 beers. At that point he was asked to perform field sobriety tests and was then arrested for DUI. He was taken to jail and refused a breath test. Attorney David Haenel represented this client as was able to get his DUI charges reduced to a Reckless Driving with a withhold of adjudication.
Instead Of 90 Days In Jail This Client Has His Case Dismissed
Violation Of A driver’s license restriction – Criminal Charge
2009 CT 14448NC
The defendant was involved in a traffic accident and was found to be at fault. The officer who conducted the investigation cited the defendant with Violation Of A Driver’s License Restriction. This was a criminal charge and the State Attorney sought jail time offering 90 days in county jail. Attorney David Haenel took the case and filed a motion to suppress the defendant’s statements. The motion was granted by the judge and the case was dismissed.
DUI Charges Dismissed Completely In Sarasota Case
Case# 2010 CT7525NC
This defendant was stopped after leaving a bar. The officer stopped him for illegal tint and a cracked windshield. The officer suspected DUI and asked David Haenel’s client to preform Field Sobriety Tests based on an odor of alcohol on his breath. The defendant preformed Filed Sobriety Tests and was arrested.When he got to jail in Sarasota he refused to submit to a breath test. David Haenel convinced the State Attorney to not file the charges meaning the DUI was completely dropped and charges were never filed.
Mandatory Jail And 5 Year License Suspension Avoided On Second DUI
Case # 2010CT002699
This client was facing a second DUI conviction within 10 years, which meant mandatory jain and up to a 5 year license suspension. The defendant was stopped for speeding. The officers that pulled the defendant over claimed to smell alcohol. AnneMarie Rizzo’s client admitted to having several drink. Her client performed poorly on Field Sobriety Tests and refused a breath test following the arrest. AnneMarie took depositions and gathered evidence as part of her investigation into the case. During this process her client never lost his license the entire time. After months of negotiation AnneMarie set her clients case for trial but before she could fight the charge the DUI was reduced to a reckless driving with no conviction.
DUI Drug Charge Reduced To Reckless Following St. Patrick’s Day Stop
Sarasota 2010CT003165
This Finebloom and Haenel client was stopped for running a red light on St. Patrick’s Day. The officers who stopped the defendant accused our client of driving on prescription medication and drinking beer. The defendant in this case admitted to drinking two beers and later refused both field sobriety tests and a breath test. Our attorney AnneMarie Rizzo filled a motion to suppress the evidence as her client insisted he was bullied by the arresting officers. AnneMarie set the case for trial where she was prepared to challenge the State’s charges but before that could happen the State reduced the DUI charges to reckless driving.
Armed Robbery With A Weapon Reduced To Assault
2010 CF 000816 NC
The Defendant was arrested and charged with armed robbery with a weapon. The initial offer from the State was 10 years in prison. Darren Finebloom was retained and immediately began investigating the case. The alleged victim accused the Defendant of attacking him and robbing him of close to 200 dollars. The Sarasota County Sheriff was called out and arrested the Defendant for armed robbery based on injuries to the victim. Further investigation revealed a mutual combat situation and a potential argument that the Defendant acted in self defense. This evidence came from promptly acquiring the 911 tape and interviewing the victim. Shortly before the trial the state offered the defendant a reduced charge of misdemeanor assault and no jail.
Sarasota Aggravated Assault With A Deadly Weapon Reduced To Battery
2010 CF 008030 NC
The Defendant was accused by his girlfriend of assault with a deadly weapon. Some preliminary investigation showed inconsistencies with the victim’s story. Darren Finebloom immediately began preparing the Defense. Showing the inconsistencies to the Prosecutor in this matter the State agreed to reduce the charge to simple battery no jail and no conviction.
Sarasota County — 2010CT001110SC
Leaving The Scene Of An Accident Charges Dropped In Sarasota County Case
Our client was charged with careless driving and leaving the scene of an accident. The hit-and-run charge carried with it a possible fine of $500, up to 60 days in county jail, six months probation and 6 points on the defendant’s driver’s license. David Haenel scheduled the case for trial in order to challenge the charges. Before the case went to trial the State dropped the charge and our client never went to trial on the leaving the scene of an accident charge.
Manatee County – 2010 CT 000396
Manatee County DUI Reduced To Reckless Driving After Breath Test Refusal
The Defendant was stopped by the Manatee county Sheriff’s Officer for driving on her rim. She was ordered out of her vehicle and requested to perform field sobriety tests. The Defendant refused to do so without an attorney present. She was subsequently arrested on what the officer’s believed was probable cause. The Defendant was taken back to the Manatee County Jail in Port Manatee and refused a breath test. Upon review of the video Darren Finebloom convinced the State to reduce the DUI charge to reckless driving and got the Court to withhold adjudication as this was her first DUI offense.
Pinellas County – CTC0936013MMANO
Not Guilty! Jury Acquits Pinellas Man Charged With Battery
The Defendant was accused of attacking his 14 yr old grandson and charged with battery. Darren Finebloom immediately began investigating the case and took the case to a jury trial. During the trial it was established that the Defendant’s grandson was the aggressor in this situation. Mr. Finebloom successfully argued to a jury that the grandfather’s actions were in the course of discipline and in self defense. The jury found the Defendant not guilty.
State v. RB Pinellas County — CRC0911210CFANO
The Defendant was originally charged with Felony DUI a 4th Offense. The police responded to the Defendant’s home and saw a vehicle crashed into the home. The Defendant was on scene and inebriated. His step son was also on scene but was not questioned by the police. The police made a decision early on that the Defendant was the driver and would be arrested for DUI. Darren Finebloom filed a motion to dismiss the Felony DUI based on two of the Defendant’s prior convictions being uncounselled. After 6 months of litigation the felony charges were dismissed. Once in Misdemeanor court Darren Finebloom filed several motions including a motion to suppress, motion to dismiss and several other evidentiary motions. The State realized they would have a difficult time proving this case reluctantly reduced the charges to reckless driving.
CASE: State v. GT 10-000189MM
Charges: Driving While License Suspended
Date: May 12, 2010
Lawyer: David Haenel
County: Sarasota
The defendant was charged with Driving With A Suspended License (DWLS). The license suspension was for failure to pay child support. The State Attorney asked for 30 days in county jail for the child support suspension. David Haenel explained the suspension was without knowledge. After discussions with the prosecutor the state amended the case to civil infraction of DWLS without knowledge. The judge withheld adjudication and made the defendant pay court costs only. No criminal violation, no jail and no points on a civil infraction. Our client didn’t even have to pay the ticket.
2009CF005730NC
Charges: Burglary and Battery
Maximum Sentence: Life In Prison
Date: May 10, 2010
Lawyer: Darren Finebloom
County: Sarasota
The defendant was accused of going to the victim’s residence after he was sold an automobile under what he believed were false pretences. The alleged victim sold cars out of his home. Our client confronted the person in his home asking for an explanation as to why he misrepresented the vehicle he sold to our client. The alleged victim in the case claimed the defendant chased him and kicked in a door, which our client disputed. The victim called 911. The defendant waited for the police to show up and spoke with the officers freely. It was later discovered the victim in this case had previous charges for fraud involving car sales for which he was on probation. With information that there may be other cases of fraud involving the victim, that his probation status was ripe for cross examination, Darren Finebloom presented this information to the State. Darren Finebloom convinced the State to dismiss the felony. Immediately before the trial Darren Finebloom and the State’s Attorney came to an agreement reducing the charges from burglary and battery to trespass with a withhold of adjudication, no formal conviction and court costs.
Case 6321-XEL, May 12, 2010 Judge Courtney
NO CONVICTION FOR ANY CHARGE! – Defendant retained Stephen Higgins on his DUI. Defendant was stopped for following too closely and failure to maintain a single lane. Deputies smelled alcohol and requested that defendant perform field sobriety exercises, which defendant failed. He refused to provide a breath sample. Stephen was able to beat the license suspension at the DMV allowing defendant to reinstate his full driving privileges. On the criminal side of the case, Stephen was able to get the charge amended to a Reckless Driving, with no conviction, no probation and no community service hours.
Case 7153-XEF, May 11, 2010 Judge Conrad
NO CONVICTION FOR DUI –Defendant was stopped by Hillsborough Deputies after they observed her car hit and drive over a curb. Defendant had trouble exiting the car and was unable to perform the field sobriety exercises. She later admitted to drinking, but refused to provide a breath same. On the eve of trial, Stephen Higgins got the charge amended to Reckless Driving.
April 28, 2010
Case number 2849-XDY – Judge McNeil
NO DUI CONVICTION – Defendant was operating a motor vehicle in Hillsborough County and was stopped by Hillsborough County Deputies for an expired tag. Deputies smelled alcohol and the defendant admitted to drinking. He failed Field Sobriety Exercises but refused the breath sample. Stephen Higgins argued lack of probable cause to arrest and was able to get the charge amended to Reckless Driving.
April 20, 2010
Case Number 1537-XDY – Judge Huey
No DUI Conviction – Defendant, a CDL driver, was observed by Hillsborough County Deputy for speeding 70 in a 45 MPH zone. After being stopped, the Defendant performed field sobriety exercises and failed. Defendant was transported to Orient Road jail where he provided breath samples of .103 and .109. Defendant also admitted to drinking 4 Corona beers. Despite the evidence of impairment, Stephen Higgins was able to get the charge amended to a Reckless Driving.
April 14, 2010
Case Number 7565-XEF – Judge Lefler
NO DUI CONVICTION – .158!!! Defendant was stopped for traveling over the solid white bar at a pedestrian cross walk. The defendant was then observed driving straight in a right turn only lane. Tampa Police Officers smelled an odor of alcohol on her breath and she failed field sobriety exercises. At Central Breath Testing at the Orient Road Jail, defendant provided a breath sample of .158. Stephen Higgins argued that there was lack of probable cause for the stop of her vehicle, and despite the breath sample, kept his client from being convicted of a DUI.
April 6, 2010
Case number 6436-XAM – Judge Huey
NO CONVICTION – NO LICENSE SUSPENSION– Defendant was stopped on Howard Ave. for erratic driving and for almost rear-ending a taxi cab. Upon contact, Tampa Police Officers smelled an odor of alcohol on his breath. Defendant was unable to follow instructions during the field sobriety exercises and was arrested. The defendant refused to provide a breath sample. Stephen Higgins got the charge amended to a Reckless Driving with no conviction and he beat the DMV suspension of defendant’s license.
April 2010 – Case 6468-XEL – Judge McNeil
NO CONVICTION FOR DUI –Defendant was stopped on Turkey Creek Road for speeding. Defendant had bloodshot, watery eyes, slurred speech and an odor of alcohol on her breath. She was unable to satisfactorily complete the FSE’s and was arrested. She later provided breath samples of .102 and .100. Despite evidence of impairment, Stephen Higgins argued lack of probable cause for the arrest and was able to get the charge amended to a Reckless Driving.
April 2010 1778-XDY – Judge Conrad
NO CONVICTION FOR DUI – Defendant was observed to be sleeping behind the wheel at a green light on the corner of Duncan Road and US HWY 301. Deputies arrived and requested that she perform FSE, which she failed. Defendant refused to provide a breath sample. Pending a motion to suppress based on an illegal stop, Stephen Higgins was able to get the DUI charge amended to a Reckless Driving with no conviction.
March 2010 – Case 6661-XAM, Judge Thomas
NO CONVCTION FOR DUI – Defendant, a special operative with the British Army, was observed on the corner of Kennedy and Armenia stopped at a green light. Tampa police followed the defendant and observed him weaving over the double yellow lines. Defendant was stopped and asked to perform field sobriety exercises, which he failed. He provided breath samples of .124 and .126. Despite evidence of DUI, Stephen Higgins was able to get the DUI charge amended to a Reckless Driving with no probation. .
March 2010 – Judge Lefler
NO CONVICTION FOR ANY CHARGE –Defendant was stopped for weaving and failing to maintain a single lane. Upon contact with the defendant, Tampa police officers smelled alcohol and asked her to perform FSE’s. She failed. She was transported to CBT at Orient Road jail and refused to provide a breath sample. Stephen Higgins was able to get the charge amended to a Reckless Driving with no conviction.
March 2010 – Judge Huey
NO CONVICTION FOR ANY CHARGE AND NO LICNESE SUSPENSION-Defendant was stopped by Hillsborough County Deputies for weaving and interfering with other traffic. Defendant had difficulty communicating wit the Deputy and failed Field Sobriety Exercises. She was arrested and transported to CBT and provided breath samples of .099 and .096. Stephen Higgins was able to beat the license suspension allowing defendant to retain her full driving privileges and beat the DUI and get it amended to a Reckless Driving with no conviction.
Case 3437-XDY, Judge Huey
NO CONVICTION FOR DUI – 2nd OFFENSE in 5 YEARS – Defendant was stopped for speeding 75 in a 60 MPH zone. Deputies smelled the odor of alcohol on defendant’s breath and requested that he perform field sobriety exercises, which he failed. Post Miranda, defendant admitted that he felt the effect of alcohol and that he should not have been driving. Despite this damaging evidence and a prior offense within 5 years, Stephen Higgins was able to get the charge amended to a Reckless Driving, saving client from jail and a 5 year driver’s license revocation.
DUI Charges In Sarasota Dropped Against Finebloom & Haenel Client
STATE v. NP 2009 CT 017903 NC
The Defendant was travelling southbound on Tamiami Trail in Sarasota County when he was pulled over by the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office for speeding. The Deputy alleged to have seen signs of impairment including, slurred speech, odor of alcohol, and bloodshot watery eyes. The Defendant admitted to coming from a bar and stated he had two long island iced teas. The Sarasota County Deputy had the Defendant perform Standardized Field Sobriety tests. Upon completion of the tests the Defendant was arrested for DUI. He took a breath test and a urine test. Darren Finebloom set the case for trial and did not waive the Defendant right to a speedy trial. On the morning of trial the State dropped the DUI charge.
NO CHARGES FILED AGAINST OUR CLIENT IN SARASOTA ON A DUI WITH PROPERTY DAMAGE ARREST
STATE v. J.B. 2007 CT 003504
The Defendant was stopped by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office due to a report that he was all over the road. The Deputy then alleged that he witnessed the Defendant driving his motorcycle in a reckless fashion. Subsequent to the stop the Defendant was made to perform standardized field sobriety tests. Subsequent to those tests he was arrested for DUI. Darren Finebloom request the videotaped evidence of the DUI investigation which the State and the Deputy claimed they had. After several more requests the evidence showed that the tape had been lost in translation. Darren Finebloom filed a motion to dismiss the case. The County court judge granted the motion dismissing all charges but the State appealed that decision. The Circuit court Judge overturned the decision and reinstated the charges. Finebloom & Haenel did not give up and appealed that decision to the Second District Court of Appeal. After a 3-year fight the standardized field sobriety tests were excluded as evidence and the State dropped the charges to reckless driving and the Defendant agreed to no conviction and just a fine.
NO CHARGES FILED AGAINST OUR CLIENT IN SARASOTA ON A DUI WITH PROPERTY DAMAGE ARREST
2009CT017192NC
The Defendant was in a traffic accident and during the course of the crash investigation the officer reported smelling the odor of alcohol on one of the people at the scene. He then switched to a DUI investigation of the Defendant. Upon further investigation the officer said the Defendant swayed while he was walking, had bloodshot, watery eyes and slurred speech. The Defendant attempted to perform Field Sobriety Tests including the eye test (Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus) and the walk and turn. The Defendant stopped responding to the officer’s requests during the walk and turn and would not answer the officer when he asked if the Defendant was refusing to complete the Field Sobriety Tests. The Defendant was then placed under arrest for DUI with property damage. At the Sarasota County Jail the Defendant refused to take a breath test. Despite his refusal to take a breath test and his results on the field sobriety tests, attorney David Haenel convinced the State not to file charges in the case.
DUI REDUCED TO RECKLESS DRIVING DESPITE A BREATH TEST OF 0.133
Hillsborough County Deputies received an anonymous call that a person was driving erratically and gave a last known location of the vehicle in a CVS parking lot. Deputies arrived and found defendant illegally parked in a handicap spot with vomit on the exterior of the door. Deputies approached and requested that defendant perform Field Sobriety Exercises which he failed. He was taken to Orient Road Jail and provided a breath sample of .133. Tampa DUI lawyer, arguing that the “stop” of defendant vehicle violated his 4th Avengement rights was able to get the DUI charges reduced to a Reckless Driving. (Ref. No. 5814-XEC)
CLIENT BLOWS TWICE THE LEGAL LIMT BUT KEEPS HIS LICENSE AND CHARGES ARE REDUCED TO RECKLESS DRIVING
Tampa Police Officer arrived at McDill AirForce Base at the request of military personnel stating that defendant was at the entry gate attempting to pay a toll, apparently thinking he was on the Crosstown Expressway. Officers requested that defendant perform Field Sobriety Exercises which he failed. Defendant also admitted to drinking ‘a couple of shots.’ Defendant was arrested, transported to Orient Road jail and provided a breath sample of .165. Arguing that a critical portion of the arrest report was missing, Tampa DUI lawyer Stephen Higgins was able to get the charge amended to a Reckless Driving. The lawyers at Finebloom & Haenel were also able to invalidate the suspension of defendant’s license meaning defendant was never without the privilege to drive. (Ref. No. 1024-XCM)
Jury Takes Just 10 Minutes To Find Orlando Woman NOT GUILTY Of DUI
A young woman in Orange County was involved in a car accident and admitted to drinking. Darren Finebloom filed motions and the State Attorney threatened if his client continued to fight the DUI charges he would revoke all offers and seek jail against a young college girl charged with a first offense DUI. Finebloom and Rizzo were undeterred and took the case to trial. The Defendant refused field sobriety tests but the officer claimed she was swaying, had slurred speech, smelled of alcohol and that he had no doubt she was impaired. The case was tried on December 14, 2009 in Orange County criminal court. After receiving all of the evidence the residents of Orange County performed their civic duty admirably and returned a verdict of Not Guilty in less than 10 minutes. (ref. 09-CT-0014594-O)
DUI Defendant Found NOT GUILTY In Manatee County
The Defendant was parked outside of his apartment complex listening to music with the keys in the ignition of his vehicle. The Bradenton Police Department received a call for a noise complaint and responded. They claimed the Defendant was passed out behind the wheel of a running car. Darren Finebloom investigated and found the evidence showed differently. The Defendant was arrested and refused all testing claiming his innocence that he was not driving. After a day-long jury trial the residents of Manatee County showed their courage and found the Defendant not guilty in less than 15 minutes. (Ref. 2009 CT 003748)
FELONY CHARGES DISMISSED AGGRAVATED ASSAULT WITH A FIREARAM
Defendant was arrested for Aggravated Assault with a firearm. Defendant quickly retained the services of Manatee/Bradenton Criminla Defense Attorney Darren Finebloom immediately collected a sworn witness statement from the Defendant’s ex-wife which demonstrated the Defendant was acting in self-defense. In addition we requested the 911 tape from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office which also showed that the Defendant was protecting his family when he drew his gun against an aggressor. Based on this evidence we were able to convince the Office of the State Attorney to dismiss the charges. 2009 CF 002431
Felony charges not filed!!
Defendant was charged with Aggravated Assault with a Firearm. Defendant quickly retained the services of Tampa criminal defense lawyer Stephen Higgins who immediately filed a Notice of Appearance with the Clerk of Court and began to negotiate with the State Attorney. Stephen explained the version of events as they happened, in direct contrast to the arresting officer’s report. Based on the discussion with the State Attorney, Stephen was able to prevent charges from being filed. (Ref No. 09-CF-018576)
DUI REFUSAL REDUCED TO RECKLESS DRIVING AND POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA DISMISSED
2009MM003789NC
The Defendant was stopped for traveling at a high rate of speed and swerving in and out of his lane. When the Defendant was approached by law enforcement officers they immediately noticed an odor of alcohol, bloodshot watery eyes and very slurred speech. The Deputies asked the Defendant to step out of the vehicle and noticed that the Defendant was unsteady on his feet when he was standing and walking. The Deputies asked the Defendant to perform field sobriety exercises. The Defendant did the eye test (also known as horizontal gaze nystagmus), the walk and turn exercise, and the one leg stand exercise. After performing the exercises the Deputies arrested the Defendant. During the search of the Defendant’s person and vehicle the Deputies found marijuana in his possession. After the Defendant’s arrest the Deputies requested the Defendant to give a breath test. The Defendant refused to give a breath test. AnneMarie Rizzo quickly began to gather evidence in support of her client’s defense. AnneMarie took depositions and filed a motion to suppress the marijuana. The Judge granted the motion to suppress and the marijuana charge was ultimately dismissed. At the administrative DMV hearing AnneMarie also convinced the DMV to invalidate her client’s license suspension and won his license back. AnneMarie set the case for trial. The week before trial the Prosecutor agreed to drop the DUI to a Reckless Driving. The Defendant never went without a license and also received a withhold of adjudication meaning he wasn’t convicted of any offense.
DUI REDUCED WITH POSITIVE DRUG TEST TO RECKLESS DRIVING
2009CT002686
The Defendant was driving on the interstate when a citizen called 911 for a possible drunk driver. The 911 caller stated the Defendant’s car was weaving and changing speeds for no reason and almost caused two accidents, then almost ran off the road numerous times finally losing control and crashing. When the Deputies arrived on scene they stated that the Defendant appeared dazed and had droopy, glassy eyes. The Defendant was given a series of Field Sobriety Exercises in which the Deputies stated were performed poorly. The Deputies arrested the Defendant and took him to jail. At the jail the Defendant provided a breath test and a urine test. The urine test was positive for a variety of drugs. AnneMarie Rizzo immediately began investigating the case and preparing her client’s defense. She told the Prosecutor the Deputy didn’t follow proper procedures and there was a lot of evidence in her client’s favor. AnneMarie set the case for trial and the Prosecutor reduced the charge to Reckless Driving.
DUI WITH A BREATH TEST OF A .283 REDUCED TO RECKLESS DRIVING
2009CT005274NC
The Defendant was involved in a crash and once the police arrived they noticed indicators of impairment. The Deputies stated the Defendant had an odor of alcohol, staggering, and unable to focus. Additionally, they stated he had bloodshot watery eyes and slurred speech. The Defendant was requested to perform field sobriety tests which they said he performed poorly. The Defendant was arrested and taken to jail where he was asked to take the breath test. The Defendant’s breath tests results were .283 and .282. The Defendant immediately retained the Law Firm of Finebloom and Haenel. Darren Finebloom quickly began preparing his defense for his client. Darren even found the medical nurse who evaluated the Defendant who stated she did not believe the Defendant to be impaired despite his breath test. Darren Fineblooom and David Haenel filed a motion to suppress the breath test and won! The State was not allowed to use the results of the breath test against the Defendant. After setting the case for trial and Darren Finebloom and David Haenel were able to convince the State Attorney to reduce the charge to Reckless Driving.
DUI NOT GUILTY
2009 CT 001816 SC
The Defendant was stopped for almost running a North Port Police Officer off the road. The Defendant stated he dropped his water and that is what caused him to swerve. The Police in their rush to judgment felt the Defendant was impaired by something. They requested the Defendant perform field sobriety tests of which he performed poorly. It turns out that the Defendant was taking prescription medication. The Officer in trial alleged that the Defendant informed him that he took four to five tablets just hours ago and took more then he should have. This evidence did not deter Anne Marie Rizzo as she fought the State and the Police at every turn. Once the Defendant was arrested he blew .000 on the breath test machine and provided a urine sample which turned up positive for methadone and xanax. We presented the defense of involuntary intoxication and argued that the Defendant only did what he was told to do by his Doctor. In an all day trial despite numerous rulings against the lawyers of Finebloom & Haenel the jury came back in 40 minutes with a not guilty verdict. AMAZING!
AGGRAVATED ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON AND BATTERY DROPPED ENTIRELY
2009CF011242NC
The Defendant was at his home sleeping when an extended family member showed up and started arguing with him. The alleged victim asserted that she was pushed against the wall by the Defendant and pushed outside the door. The alleged victim then asserted that the Defendant went into his garage, grabbed a machete and threatened her with it in front of multiple people including a 9 year old boy. The Defendant was arrested and taken to jail and held on no bond. AnneMarie Rizzo was retained on the day of his arrest went to the jail and convinced the Judge to allow the Defendant out on bond. AnneMarie quickly began investigating the case, gathered all the evidence, and contacted the alleged victim. AnneMarie was able to convince the Prosecutor that there were a lot of inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s statements and all charges were dropped entirely!
BATTERY AND DISORDERLY INTOXICATION DROPPED
2009MM010940NC
The Defendant was visiting the area for a fesitval when he was involved in a verbal dispute after his wife’s >purse was stolen. The Defendant became very upset and began yelling at people nearby and allegedly struck one of the employees at the festival against his will. The Defendant was arrested, taken to jail where he was charged with battery and disorderly intoxication. AnneMarie Rizzo quickly contacted the alleged victim and the witnesses involved in the case. She also ordered the 911 calls immediately. After gathering all the statements and evidence AnneMarie contacted the Prosecutor and vigorously advocated for her client. The State Attorney dismissed the charges.
SEX OFFENSE AGAINST A CHILD 12-15 YEARS OLD (SARASOTA COUNTY)
2009 CF 010892 NC
A warrant was issued for the Defendant for improperly touching a 13 year old girl. This type of charge carries a 15 year sentence and a sexual offender designation for the rest of your life. The Defednant was in Missouri at the time warrant was issued. The family of the Defendant contacted Darren Finebloom, who after extensive investigation by Finebloom & Haenel, was able to convince the prosecutor in the 12th Judicial Circuit to drop all charges. Shortly thereafter Mr. Finebloom was able to convince the State Attorney in Sarasota, Florida to decline charges in this matter.
3398-SPM Pinellas County
The Defendant was accused of racing another vehicle on the roadways of Pinellas County. The Defendant and Co-Defendant were both stopped and citied for racing which carries a mandatory one year driving suspension. At the begining of the case, the prosecutor refused to reduce the charge and wanted the Defendant to plea to the racing charge. After protracted negotiations lawyers at Finebloom & Haenel were able to convince the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a speeding ticket, with a withhold of ajudication
DOMESTIC BATTERY CHARGE DISMISSED (PINELLAS COUNTY)
CTC0916093MMANO
The Defendant was inolved in a verbal dispute with his wife. The Defendant during the argument with his wife grabbed her by the arm to get her attention. She called 911 and the police came to their home. The police arrested the Defendant for Domestic Battery. The next day the Judge put a no contact order in place to prevent the Defendant from contacting his wife and ordered him to find a different place to reside. AnneMarie Rizzo immediately began investigating the case and had a motion scheduled in front of the Judge to get the No Contact Order lifted right away. AnneMarie discussed with the Prosecutor the reasons to drop the charges against her client. The Prosecutor dismissed all battery charges.
LEAVING THE SCENE CHARGE DISMISSED
2009 CT 002422 NC
The Defendant was involved in a minor accident with an unoccupied vehicle. Someone obtained our client’s tag number and called the police. Our client was contacted by the police and made some admissions that we argued to the prosecutor were inadmissible. AnneMarie Rizzo was able to convince the prosecutor to drop the charges completely.
BATTERY CHARGE DISMISSED (SARASOTA COUNTY)
2008 MM 021269 NC
The Defendant is an owner of a local pizza restaurant. He had been advertising on the side of the road for months. A competitor then decided to do the same and an argument ensued. The Defendant was accused of assaulting the complainant from the competing pizza place. Darren Finebloom investigated the case and an independent witness testified that the Defendnat was only acting in self defense. All charges were dropped.
BATTERY CHARGE DROPPED (MANATEE COUNTY) 2009 MM 61
The Defendant was involved in an altercation with a family member. According to the police report, the Defendant pushed the victim into the shower and hit her aside the head. The victim signed a form expressing an interest to prosecute, but the state attorney did not feel they could prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt and thanks to AnneMarie Rizzo they declined to file charges
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF(PINELLAS COUNTY) CTC0828697MMANO
The Defendant and his friend were alleged to have damaged a utility box. After countless phone calls by AnneMarie Rizzo, she convinced the State Attorney not to moved forward with the charge and the State declined to file the charges. The defendant, because he does not have a criminal history, is now eligible to have the arrest expunged from his criminal history.
OBSTRUCTION WITHOUT VIOLENCE CHARGE DISMISSED (SARASOTA COUNTY)
1998MM004378NC
The Defendant was alleged to have given a false name to Law Enforcement. Due to the age of the case Darren Finebloomrealized that the State would have a difficult time proving this case. As a result he set the case for trial. The State Attorneys Office dropped the charge. 1/23/2009
FELONY CHILD ABUSE CHARGES DROPPED (SARASOTA COUNTY)
2008 CF 016725 NC
The Defendant was alleged to have spanked his child in such a way that left the child severly bruised. After a thorough investigation of the case and the facts Darren Finebloom provided case law to the State which showed they could not go forward on this case. On December 10, 2008 the State dropped the felony charge.
SECOND BATTERY CASE IN ONE DAY DISMISSED ENTIRELY(SARASOTA COUNTY)
2008 MM 19092 NC
The Defendant was down vacationing in Florida for a wedding. He is alleged to have tapped a woman in a hotel lobby and was subsequently arrested for simple battery. AnneMarie Rizzo and David Haenel set the case for trial, and a week before the jury was to be selected the state attorney dropped the charges.
BATTERY CHARGE COMPLETELY DISMISSED (SARASOTA COUNTY)
2008 MM 21054 SC
>The Defendant and the victim have a son together and they were visiting the Defendant’s father winter home in Sarasota County. An altercation occurred between the Defendant and the victim and escalated into a shoving match. AnneMarie Rizzo was able to do a thorough investigation, including obtaining public records, and the State Attorney decided to drop the charges entirely.
CHILD ABUSE CHARGES COMPLETELY DISMSISED (SARASOTA COUNTY)
2008 CF 016725 NC
The Defendant was accused and arrested on one count of Child Abuse. The Defendant was alleged to have struck his child causing severe bruises. After a thorough investigation performed by Darren Finebloom it turned out it was only one bruise which occurred in the course of discipline. Florida Law allows a parent to reasonably discipline their child. After providing the case law to the State Attorney the charge was dismissed.
2008 CT 012821 NC RECKLESS DRIVING DISMISSED WITH PREJUDICE (SARASOTA COUNTY)
12-10-2008
The Defendant was accused of driving erratically with alcohol as a factor. The Defendant was alleged to have fled from the undercover deputy who was following him. AnneMarie Rizzo filed a motion to take depositions of the deputy. The prosecutor assigned to the case objected. The Judge granted depositions and then filed a motion to dismiss the charge allegeding that the Defendant’s behavior did not fit within the reckless driving statute. AnneMarie won the motion and the Judge dismissed the charge with prejudice, meaning the State can NOT refile the charge.
2008 CF 017405 NC ALL CHARGES DISMISSED SARASOTA COUNTY
BURGLARY WITH BATTERY (FACING LIFE IN PRISON)
12-03-2008
The Defendant was arrested for Burgalry of an Occupied Dwelling with a battery (punishable by life in prison), Felony Criminal Mischief, Resisting an Officer without Violence, and two counts of Battery. Darren Finebloom thoroughly investigated the case and was able to show the prosecutor that there was no intent to commit a crime in the home. After lengthy negotiations the State agreed to drop all charges.
2008 CT 004478 LEAVING THE SCENE OF AN ACCIDENT MANATEE COUNTY
ALL CHARGES DISMISSED
The Defendant was involved in a single vehicle accident and was transported to the hospital for medical treatment. After a short time he left the hospital not knowing that the Police were looking to speak with him regarding the accident. Darren Finebloom pushed the case to trial and the State dropped the charges.
SARASOTA COUNTY TRAFFICKING IN OXYCODONE > 4 GRAMS
2007CF006486NC
The Defendant was a 67 year old with no prior record. He was involved in a major car accident and just recovering from triple bypass surgery. A friend made advances to get him to sell her oxycodone of which the Defendant was prescribed for his pain. She eventually convinced him to sell her a trafficking amount of oxycodone and the Defendant was arrested and faced a 3yr minimum mandatory prison sentence. Darren Finebloom, after lengthy negotiations with the State attorney’s office, was able to get the charge reduced and the Defendant was given a probationary sentence. The Defendant was facing a 3 year minimum mandatory sentence.
2008 CF 008705 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
LEWD AND LASCIVIOUS/CHILD ABUSE CHARGES DROPPED
The Defendant was accused of having an innapropriate relationship with one of his students. The case was all over the papers. Numerous false accusations were made and after an extensive investigation by Darren Finebloom which was provided to the State Attorney all charges were dropped.
2004 CT 003641 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
DWLS DROPPED AFTER JURY SELECTION
The Defendant came to our office with a 5 year suspension on her license. Darren Finebloom was bale to set aside one of her suspensions and the 5 year license suspension. The State still wanted to go forward on the old driving while license suspended charge. Darren Finebloom picked a jury and on the eve of trial the State dismissed the charges. The client has a brand new license, no suspension, no jail no probation all charges dropped.
2008 MM 007698 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: Possession of Marijuana/Open Container
MAXIMUM PUNISHMENT: 1 Year
RESULT: Darren Finebloom filed and won a motion to suprpess all evidence and the charges were dismissed.
2008 CF 004232 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: AGGRAVATED ASSAULT WITH A FIREARM AND DOMESTIC BATTERY:
MAXIMUM PUNISHMENT: 10 years
RESULT: CHARGES DISMISSED PRIOR TO TRIAL
2007 CF 022191 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: FELONY GRAND THEFT:
FACING: 5 years State Prison
RESULT: CHARGES DISMISSED PRIOR TO TRIAL
2008 CF 000819 MANATEE COUNTY
VIOLATION: INTRODUCTION OF CONTRABAND INTO A DETENTION FACILITY AND DOMESTIC BATTERY:
FACING: 5 years State Prison
Result: CHARGES DISMISED BEFORE TRIAL
2008 CF 000471 MANATEE COUNTY
VIOLATION: FELONY CHILD ABUSE:
FACING: 5 years Prison
RESULT: CHARGES DISMISSED BEFORE TRIAL
2007 CF 001169 NC SARASOTA COUNTY:
VIOLATION: SEXUAL BATTERY
FACING: 15 years in State Prison
RESULT: CHARGES DROPPED PRIOR TAO TRIAL
2007 CF 008366 NC SARASOTA COUTNY
VIOLATION: BURGLARY WITH BATTERY CHARGES
FACING: PUNISHABLE BY LIFE INPRISONMENT
RESULT: CHARGES DROPPED PRIOR TO TRIAL
2007 CF 002596 MANATEE COUNTY
VIOLATION: FELONY GRAND THEFT
FACING: 5 years state prison
RESULT: CHARGES DROPPED PRIOR TO TRIAL
2007 CF 019032 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: FELONY FLEEING TO ELUDE CHARGES
FACING: Up to 15 years
RESULT: REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR OBSTRUCTION CHARGES NO CONVICTION
2006 CF 006277 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: CAPITAL SEXUAL BATTERY
FACING: Life in Prison
RESULT: Charges were dismissed prior to trial
2007 CF 021361 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: FELONY FLEEING TO ELUDE CHARGES
FACING: Up to 15 years
RESULT: REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR OBSTRUCTION CHARGES
2006 CF 000344 MANATEE COUNTY:
VIOLATION: LEWD AND LASCIVIOUS ACT:
FACING: Sex offender registration and up to 15 years state prison
RESULT: Client faced with being a registered sex offender Darren Finebloom got the charge reduced to misdemeanor Battery , no conviction, no sex offender registration.
2007 CF 000301 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: AGGRAVATED ASSAULT REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR ASSAULT
FACING: up to 15 years state prison
RESULT: Charges dropped to misdemeanor assault probation
2004 CF 017167 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: BURGLARY WITH A BATTERY
FACING: Up to life in prison
RESULT: Charges were reduced to misdemeanor trespass and misdemeanor battery.
2007 CF 014056 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: Possession of controlled substance, Trespass, Disorderly Conduct, and Obstruction
FACING: up to 5 years state prison
RESULT: ALL CHARGES DROPPED ON EVE OF TRIAL
CRC0726346CFANO PINELLAS COUNTY
VIOLATION: TRAFFICKING IN HYDROCODONE > 28 grams
FACING: MINIMUM OF 25 YEARS STATE PRISON
RESULT: ALL CHARGES DROPPED PRIOR TO TRIAL
2005 CF 021133 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: Felony Driving While License Suspended
FACING: up to 5 years
RESULT: Charge reduced to Misdemeanor probation no conviction
2007 CF 000394 DESOTO COUNTY
VIOLATION: FELONY SALE OF NARCOTIC PARAPHERNALIA
FACING: up to 5 years state prison
RESULT: Charges dropped
2007 CF 014716 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: SEXUAL BATTERY
FACING: up to 30 years
RESULT: CHARGES DROPPED BEFORE TRIAL
2007 CF 011169 NC
VIOLATION: Dealing in Stolen Property
FACING: 15 years state prison
RESULT: Charges dropped before trial
2005 MM 020804 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: DOMESTIC BATTERY
FACING: Up to a year
RESULT: Defendant found not guilty after trial
2004 CF 014687 NC SARASOTA COUNTY
VIOLATION: SEXUAL BATTERY
FACING: UP TO LIFE IN PRISON
RESULT: CHARGES DROPPED PRIOR TO TRIAL
2004 MM 006073
VIOLATION: DOMESTIC BATTERY
FACING: up to 1 year
RESULT: Charges dropped
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