Locals hope stricter DUI laws will lessen offenses
Now that a fourth DUI means felony charges for repeat drunk drivers, some Coloradans believe there will be fewer DUI’s.
KRDO NewsChannel13 talked with a repeat offender who says he thinks the law could help people make better choices.
“I’ve had a tornado of a life through my alcoholism,” David Hancock explained.
That tornado landed Hancock in jail twice for getting behind the wheel.
“When I went out and drank, could I drive? Absolutely. Because I was in control and I didn’t want to admit to anybody that I couldn’t drink and drive.”
Hancock says treatment was his salvation. He’s been to rehab and attends therapy sessions.
“In order to make better choices I had to seek after different answers other than the bottle,” Hancock said.
Kathye Pebley works with patients like Hancock daily. She’s the Program Director at “A Turning Point,” a Colorado Springs treatment facility.
“We give them a huge toolbox full of tools so that they can load that up and use those tools to not re-offend and not drink and drive.” said Pebley.
“It’s really important to be cognizant of your actions because if you get any kind of drug on board that’s a mind-altering substance. One of the first things that goes is your judgment. You might think that you’re invincible or that you’re okay to drive and you’re not, so to be really aware of that. If you go and hurt someone that alters your life forever,” said Pebley.
Hancock credits treatment at the facility for helping him stay sober for the past six months.
“I’m thankful and happy to be sober today. I will be tomorrow. And for the rest of my life,” said Hancock.
And Pebley encourages anyone who is struggling to seek help, saying reaching out is the first step to getting better.
“There’s 24-hour on-call services, there’s a crisis center… There is really a multitude of services here in Colorado Springs,” added Pebley. “When people can actually make a change that’s positive and it’s for the betterment of themselves, I really think that’s phenomenal.”
To contact “A Turning Point,” call (719) 550-1011.
