Calls for Accountability as Trooper Released After Fatal DUI Crash

Imagine being a law enforcement Officer and being arrested on a DUI? Or worse being involved in a fatal DUI crash? When that happens it's a huge legal and  professional problem according to the Yakima County Prosecutors Office.

DUI CHARGES CAN KILL A LAW ENFORCEMENT CAREER

Yakima County Prosecutor Joe Brusic says DUI charges or a charge of vehicular homicide is serious for everyone but it can torpedo a law enforcement career and make a mess of personal life. 35-year-old Washington State Patrol Trooper Sarah Clasen was arrested on a vehicular homicide charge with suspicion of DUI after a fatal crash on State Route 240 near Horn Rapids on Saturday, March 1. The crash resulted in the death of 20-year-old Jhoser Sanchez. 35-year-old Clasen has been released on her own recognizance until her next court appearance set for March 12. She's suspected of being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.

DO YOU THINK SHE SHOULD BE IN JAIL?

Stories about Clasen on social media have many people questioning why Clasen been released from jail saying they believe law enforcement Officers should be held to a higher standard. Yakima County Prosecutor Joe Brusic says he's not surprised Clasen was released pending her next court appearance. He says many cases involving fatal crashes allow those accused to be released from jail either by posting bail or by a judge releasing people on their own recognizance with certain conditions.

THE WA TROOPER FACES A HOST OF FUTURE PROBLEMS IF CONVICTED

Clasen now faces fines and possible major jail time with her reputation and career on the line. If convicted she could be fired from the patrol. Despite the life changing consequences law enforcement isn't shielded from the DUI laws and the consequences when someone is injured or killed.

MANY OFFICERS ARE ARRESTED EVERY YEAR

According to internet searches nationwide an average of 750 law enforcement Officers are arrested for DUI every year. Washington's DUI laws apply to everyone-the regular citizen and law enforcement. A DUI in Washington state happens when a driver operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .08% or higher or being under the influence of drugs to the point that it impairs driving.

THE WA TROOPER FACES A HOST OF FUTURE PROBLEMS IF CONVICTED

Clasen now faces fines and possible major jail time with her reputation and career on the line. If convicted she could be fired from the patrol. Despite the life changing consequences law enforcement isn't shielded from the DUI laws and the consequences when someone is injured or killed.