University of Central Florida Student Arrested for DUI and Manslaughter
Deputies in Orlando made an arrest in a deadly crash that has turned out to be a landmark DUI case. Malcom Barnes a 20 year old University of Central Florida student was charged with DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide after crashing head on into motorcyclist Andrew Brannon where he was dragged to his death.
As part of their investigation, blood was drawn in an effort to obtain a blood alcohol or drug level. However, the results did not concur with how Barnes was behaving the night of the crash. After a comprehensive search of the vehicle driven by Barnes, investigators found two canisters of 3M dust remover. This led investigators to believe that this could be a case of huffing. After further blood tests it was confirmed that he was high on the aerosol used to clean computer keyboards. If used properly this particular spray is harmless, however, the can does contain difluoroethane , a chemical that causes an instant high, or sometimes death, if it is inhaled into the lungs.
Huffing is the intentional inhalation of a chemical substance such as 3M dust remover in order to get high. This new drug mania is predominantly termed as "huffing," or "dusting." The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration published data displaying that, in the year 2005, 1.1 million kids huffed household products which included furniture polish, dust remover, air fresheners and nail polish. Those who inhale these substances and drive risk a DUI charge.
If you have been arrested for driving under the influence in Florida, it is in your own best interest to retain the services of an aggressive and experienced Florida DUI attorney. Not only are your legal rights and freedoms at risk, but you also stand to face numerous legal penalties if convicted.
Protect your freedoms and avoid penalties by hiring a highly skilled DUI lawyer to diligently defend you throughout the DUI process. As a Florida attorney with over 10 years of experience John Musca retains the skills, resources, and legal knowledge to provide competent and effective representation.
