Jury Returns Guilty Verdict in DUI Trial

A jury returned a guilty verdict last week in a driving under the influence (DUI) trial held before Judge Hoyt.

The case began when Stockton Police officers observed a vehicle while traveling on California Street. Less than a minute later, officers encountered the same vehicle parked on a different street. Upon closer observation, officers noted the vehicle had expired registration and contacted the defendant as he was exiting the vehicle. The defendant in this case is Efrain Martin.

During the contact, officers detected the odor of alcohol, and the defendant appeared extremely nervous. Officers observed additional objective signs of intoxication; however, the defendant refused to perform field sobriety tests and declined both breath and blood testing. The defendant also denied consuming alcohol prior to driving.

A warrant was subsequently obtained for the defendant’s blood. Laboratory analysis revealed a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.135 percent—well above the legal limit. The jury found the defendant guilty on both Vehicle Code sections 23152(a) (driving under the influence) and 23152(b) (driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent or higher).

“This conviction is the result of solid police work and effective prosecution. I commend the Stockton Police Department for their careful observations and investigation, and Deputy District Attorney Beltran for her excellent work in securing this verdict,” said District Attorney Ron Freitas.

Driving under the influence isn’t just illegal—it’s dangerous. Every impaired driver puts families, pedestrians, and other motorists at risk. Make the responsible choice. Plan a safe ride before you drive.