Crime & Safety

Leandra's Law: What Do You Think?

Is it effective in protecting children and deterring people from driving drunk?

A Massapequa man became the latest resident to be arrested under "Leandra's Law," which makes it a felony to be arrested for DWI with children 15 or under in the car. 

Carlos Rivera, 33, was charged with aggravated DWI under the law, enacted in 2009, after allegedly driving drunk with his two sons in his truck bed. 

He will automatically have his license suspended pending the outcome of his prosecution. If convicted, he would face up to four years in prison. 

Find out what's happening in Farmingdalewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The children were unhurt, but under Leandra's law, intoxicated drivers who cause serious injuries to childrenface up to 15 years in prison and 25 years if a child dies.

You might be surprised to learn that Leandra's law contains a provision that requires all drivers convicted of DWI, regardless of whether they have children in the car, be required to install and maintain an interlock device.

Find out what's happening in Farmingdalewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

We want to know if you believe these penalties are appropriate or too stiff. Do you think the law is effective? Please tell us in with your comments.


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