Strict Punishment for Drugged Driving: Hualien Prosecutors Secure Preventive Detention

Central News Agency Report

(CNA reporter Lee Hsien-feng, Hualien County, June 15) On the 12th, a man surnamed Cheng was driving along a section of Qixing Bay Boulevard in Hualien when he drove in the wrong direction and scraped against two vehicles in the opposing lane, causing injuries. Police responded to the scene and discovered that Cheng had used amphetamine and etomidate vape cartridges. The prosecution applied for preventive detention, which was approved by the court.

The Hualien District Prosecutors Office announced today that the defendant, surnamed Cheng, drove under the influence of second-grade narcotics—methamphetamine and etomidate vape cartridges—on June 12. While traveling through a section of Qixing Bay Boulevard in Hsincheng Township, he drove in the wrong direction into the opposing lane, colliding with two vehicles and causing injuries.

Police arrived at the scene after receiving the report, sent Cheng to the hospital for emergency treatment, and conducted a rapid saliva screening test. The results showed positive reactions for methamphetamine and etomidate. Six etomidate vape cartridges were seized as evidence.

After interrogation by Prosecutor Chiang Ang-hsuan, it was determined that Cheng is strongly suspected of violating Article 185-3, Paragraph 1, Clauses 3 and 4 of the Criminal Code—driving under the influence of drugs to the extent of being unable to operate a vehicle safely. Given the high risk of reoffending and the actual danger already posed to public traffic safety, the Hualien District Court approved the prosecution’s application for preventive detention.

The Hualien District Prosecutors Office emphasized that narcotics not only harm individual physical and mental health but also endanger innocent road users when drivers operate vehicles under their influence. Combating drug use and dangerous driving is currently a top priority for maintaining public order. Any driver who challenges the legal底线 or disregards public safety will face the strictest judicial penalties. The office will continue to swiftly investigate and strictly handle all drugged driving cases to fully safeguard public traffic safety. (Editor: Chang Ya-ching) 1150615