Tampa Bay DUI Lawyer :: Lightning’s Ryan Malone Charged with DUI, Cocaine Possession

April 16, 2014

Tampa Bay Lightning left winger Ryan Malone was arrested early Saturday morning on charges of cocaine possession and driving under the influence.

A Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office incident report indicates that Malone was arrested at 3:23 a.m. near Platt Street West and Rome Avenue South in Tampa.

Tampa police claim Malone was driving a 2014 Chevrolet Suburban when he made a left turn on to W Platt Street from the center lane of S Armenia Avenue and struck a curb at S Howard Avenue and W Platt Street.

A patrol officer conducted a traffic stop and allegedly detected an odor of alcohol on Malone’s breath.

Malone apparently refused to take a field sobriety test and was arrested for driving under the influence.

Malone was searched following his arrest. Police claim they uncovered 1.3 grams of cocaine in Malone’s right back pocket.

Malone allegedly submitted to a breath test at booking. According to police, his results showed a blood alcohol content of .112 and .116.

Malone was charged with DUI and possession of cocaine, and his Suburban was impounded.

His bail was set at $2,500 – $2,000 for the cocaine possession charge and $500 for the DUI charge.

He was booked into jail at 5:40 a.m. and was released on bond at 9:56 a.m.

The 34-year-old will not travel with the Lightning to their regular-season finale against the Washington Capitals, which will be played Sunday at the Verizon Center.

Charges involving driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol require immediate attention. These charges must be taken seriously as a conviction can lead to hefty fines, the loss of your driver’s license, possible jail time and a permanent criminal record. A Tampa Bay DUI Defense Lawyer at Whittel & Melton can help you beat a criminal conviction and the harsh consequences that come along with it. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor charge of DUI or are facing felony charges associated with a DUI manslaughter charge, we can provide you with the best legal defense possible.

Regardless of whether or not this is your first run in with the law, understand that you do not need to go through this process alone. While the charges against you may seem overwhelming, we can sit down with you and make sure you understand your legal rights as well as your defense options. Contact a Tampa Bay DUI Defense Attorney at Whittel & Melton online or call us at 813-221-3200 for a free initial consultation.