Cheyenne County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Cheyenne County, CO: Complete Guide

Being arrested for DUI in Cheyenne County, Colorado can feel isolating, especially given the county's vast, rural landscape. Unlike larger cities with specialized courts, Cheyenne County operates within the 15th Judicial District, characterized by long distances and a focus on community accountability. This guide provides immediate, practical steps to navigate the Cheyenne County DUI process, from understanding booking procedures to exploring local resources.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Cheyenne County

If you've been arrested for DUI in Cheyenne County, you're likely facing a complex legal process compounded by the logistical challenges of a rural environment. Cheyenne County, with a population of approximately 1,660 spread across nearly 1,800 square miles, presents unique hurdles compared to urban areas. The sheer distance to services and court facilities adds a layer of difficulty to complying with court orders. This guide will help you understand the immediate steps, critical deadlines, and local resources available to you.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

After a DUI arrest in Cheyenne County, the following typically occurs:

• The Traffic Stop: The initial stop is usually conducted by the Cheyenne County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) or the Colorado State Patrol (CSP), particularly on U.S. Highway 40 or U.S. Highway 385.
• Express Consent: Colorado's "Express Consent" law means you've already agreed to chemical testing (breath or blood) if the officer has probable cause. Refusal leads to immediate license confiscation and a "Notice of Revocation," which acts as a 7-day temporary permit.
• Chemical Testing: Breath tests are administered using Intoxilyzer 9000 units at the Cheyenne County Sheriff's Office in Cheyenne Wells. If arrested far from Cheyenne Wells (e.g., Kit Carson), transport time can be significant, which can be a key factor in the validity of the test. Blood tests, if chosen or if drug impairment is suspected, require transport to Keefe Memorial Hospital in Cheyenne Wells.
• Booking: All detainees are processed at the Cheyenne County Jail, located at 91 East 1st St N, Cheyenne Wells, CO 80810. The phone number is (719) 767-5633.
• Phone Calls: You will generally be allowed to make phone calls after the booking process is complete. Use this opportunity to contact family, a bail bondsman, and/or an attorney.
• Bail: Bail amounts are set according to the 15th Judicial District bond schedule. The specific amount will depend on the charges and your prior record.

Critical Deadlines

Missing deadlines can have severe consequences in a DUI case. Here are some key dates to keep in mind:

• ALR Hearing Request: You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to challenge the suspension of your driver's license. This is extremely important, as failing to request the hearing within this timeframe automatically triggers the license suspension.
• First Court Appearance: The date of your first court appearance will be on the paperwork you received at the time of your arrest. This is when you will be formally advised of the charges against you.
• License Suspension Timeline: If you refuse chemical testing, your license will be revoked for one year, effective after the 7-day temporary permit expires. If you take and fail the test (BAC of 0.08 or higher), suspension periods vary depending on prior offenses.

DUI Enforcement in Cheyenne County

DUI enforcement in Cheyenne County is a collaborative effort between the CCSO and CSP. CSP troopers often conduct "saturation patrols" during high-risk periods, such as holiday weekends, as part of statewide campaigns like "The Heat Is On." While specific DUI checkpoint locations are not publicly released, increased patrols are common on U.S. Highway 40 and U.S. Highway 385. Keep in mind that budget restraints within the Cheyenne County Sheriff's Office may mean that costs associated with towing and prisoner keep are directly passed on to the defendant.

Local Resources

• Cheyenne County Jail: 91 East 1st St N, Cheyenne Wells, CO 80810. Phone: (719) 767-5633.
• Cheyenne County Combined Court: Located in Cheyenne Wells. (Specific address and phone number to be added when available.)
• Keefe Memorial Hospital: Cheyenne Wells. (Specific address and phone number to be added when available.) Used for blood draws.
• 15th Judicial District Diversion Program: Contact Tammy Williams to explore diversion options. (Contact information to be added when available.)
• Centennial Mental Health Center: Enroll immediately to show good faith to the court. (Specific address and phone number to be added when available.)
• Bail Bondsmen: (List of local bail bondsmen to be added when available.) Search online for "Cheyenne County bail bonds" to find local options.
• DUI Attorneys: While we cannot recommend specific attorneys, search online for "DUI attorney Cheyenne County CO" to find qualified legal representation.

What Makes Cheyenne County Different

Cheyenne County presents unique challenges due to its rural nature. Here's what sets it apart:

• Logistical Challenges: The vast distances between towns and limited public transportation create significant logistical hurdles. For example, transporting a DUI suspect from a traffic stop in Kit Carson to the Sheriff's Office in Cheyenne Wells for a breath test can take over 30 minutes, potentially impacting the validity of the test.
• Economic Impact of License Revocation: Losing your driver's license in Cheyenne County is particularly devastating due to the lack of public transportation and the necessity of driving for work in agriculture or the oil field.
• "Logistical Probation": Compliance with court orders, such as attending interlock installation appointments in Burlington or Lamar, becomes significantly more difficult due to the travel distances.
• Community Accountability: The 15th Judicial District emphasizes community accountability, which may influence sentencing and treatment options.
• Diversion Program: A key strategy is to explore the 15th JD Diversion Program by contacting Tammy Williams. This is often the only way to avoid a permanent criminal conviction.
• Proactive Mitigation: Showing initiative by enrolling in programs like Centennial Mental Health Center before your court date can positively influence the judge's perception of your case.

Before your first court date, make sure you have a plan for transportation to Burlington or Lamar for interlock installation if required. This proactive approach demonstrates your commitment to compliance.