First Case in Kinmen: Driver Detained After Repeat Drug-Impaired Driving Offense Post-Bail

Central News Agency Report

(CNA reporter Chang Yi-Lien, Kinmen County, 14th) A motorcyclist surnamed Tsai was arrested on the 12th for driving under the influence of drugs. Investigation by prosecutors and police revealed he had previously been apprehended for drug-impaired driving in March. After being released on bail, he reoffended within a short period and was subsequently remanded into custody following questioning. The Kinmen District Prosecutors Office stated this is the first case in Kinmen where a suspect in a drug-impaired driving case has been ordered into custody by the court.

The Criminal Investigation Unit of the Kinmen County Police Department's Jinhu Precinct explained that on the 12th, during the nationwide synchronized operation to crack down on drug-impaired driving and eliminate drug sources, officers intercepted Tsai while on patrol. They observed that he appeared dazed and spoke sluggishly. Further investigation revealed he was a registered drug user.

Police reported that Tsai tested positive for amphetamines in an on-site saliva drug test. Tsai admitted to police that he had used amphetamines. Officers immediately issued a citation, impounded his vehicle, and arrested him as a current offender. The case was transferred to the Kinmen District Prosecutors Office for prosecution on suspicion of violating laws related to public endangerment and the Control of Narcotics Act.

On the 14th, the Kinmen District Prosecutors Office issued a press release stating that after interrogation by prosecutors, Tsai was found to have strong suspicion of violating Article 185-3, Paragraphs 1, Items 3 and 4 of the Criminal Code, which prohibits operating a vehicle when unable to drive safely. Furthermore, having been previously apprehended for drug-impaired driving in March and released on bail, he had again used drugs and ridden a motorcycle on public roads shortly thereafter, indicating a high risk of repeating similar offenses.

Prosecutors applied to the court on the night of the 13th for Tsai’s pre-trial detention and prohibition of visitation, which was approved. This case marks the first instance in the Kinmen region where a suspect in a drug-impaired driving case has been ordered into custody by the court.

Police added that within this week, two drug-impaired driving cases involving two individuals have been apprehended. They urged the public to report any suspicious driving behavior, such as erratic driving that may indicate drug or alcohol use. According to Article 185-3 of the Criminal Code, operating a motorized vehicle under the influence of drugs can result in up to three years in prison and a fine of up to NT$300,000. If the offense causes injury or death, the penalty increases to a minimum of three years and a maximum of ten years in prison, with a fine of up to NT$2 million. If the driver reoffends within ten years and causes injury or death, the penalty can be life imprisonment or a minimum of five years in prison, with a fine of up to NT$3 million.

Additionally, Article 35 of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act stipulates that driving a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs carries a fine of between NT$15,000 and NT$120,000, immediate vehicle impoundment, and suspension of the driver’s license for one to two years. If a child under 12 is carried as a passenger or an accident causing injury occurs, the license suspension extends to two to four years. If the accident results in serious injury or death, the license will be revoked, and the individual will be permanently barred from reapplying for a license. (Editor: Huang Ming-Hsi) 1150614