Park County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Park County, CO: Complete Guide

Being arrested for DUI in Park County, Colorado, can feel overwhelming, especially given the county's unique geographical and logistical challenges. Unlike more populated areas, Park County's high-altitude environment and dispersed population create specific hurdles for navigating the legal process. This guide provides immediate, practical information to help you understand what to expect and what steps to take next. This guide will walk you through the immediate aftermath, critical deadlines, enforcement realities, and essential resources specific to Park County.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Park County

The initial hours after a DUI arrest in Park County are crucial. After being pulled over by either the Park County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) or the Colorado State Patrol (CSP), you will likely be transported to the Park County Detention Center in Fairplay. The operational tempo of the Sheriff’s Office and the location of the arrest (Bailey area vs. Fairplay/Alma) will influence processing times. Understanding this process is the first step toward regaining control of the situation.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

• Initial Stop and Arrest: The process begins with the traffic stop, often on U.S. Highway 285 or Colorado Highway 9, which are heavily patrolled. The arresting officer will conduct field sobriety tests and may administer a preliminary breath test.
• Booking at the Park County Detention Center: Located at 1180 County Road 16, Fairplay, CO 80440, the detention center is where you'll be taken for booking. Call them directly at 719-836-4373.
• Booking Process: The booking process involves a medical and mental health screening, property inventory, fingerprinting, mugshot, and potentially a secondary chemical test (breath or blood).
• Phone Calls: You will be allowed to make phone calls after the booking process is complete. Use this opportunity to contact a loved one and, if possible, an attorney.
• Bail Setting: Colorado law mandates that you must be brought before a county judge to set bail within 48 hours of your arrest.
• Release: Once bail is posted (either by cash, surety bond, or personal recognizance), you will be released from custody.

Critical Deadlines

• ALR Hearing Request: You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing with the Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Failure to request this hearing within the deadline will result in an automatic suspension of your driver's license.
• First Court Appearance (Arraignment): You will receive a summons with a date for your first court appearance. This is where you will be formally advised of the charges against you. It's crucial to attend this hearing.
• License Suspension: If you do not request an ALR hearing, your license suspension typically begins 30 days after your arrest.

DUI Enforcement in Park County

DUI enforcement in Park County is primarily conducted by the Park County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) and the Colorado State Patrol (CSP). Enforcement is concentrated along U.S. Highway 285 and Colorado Highway 9. While specific DUI checkpoint locations are not publicly advertised, increased patrols are common during holidays and weekends. Given the limited staffing of the PCSO, rotating shifts ensure 24/7 coverage.

Local Resources

• Park County Sheriff’s Office (Fairplay): 1180 County Road 16, Fairplay, CO 80440. Phone: 719-836-4373.
• Park County Sheriff’s Office (Bailey Substation): (Contact Fairplay for information).
• Park County Detention Center: 1180 County Road 16, Fairplay, CO 80440. Phone: 719-836-4373.
• South Park Repair LLC (South Park Towing): 19389 US HWY 285, Fairplay, CO 80440. Phone: 719-427-0002. Email: southparkrepair@gmail.com. Text messaging is also an option.
• Park County Court: (Address and contact information to be added when available)
• Bail Bondsmen: (General information, no specific recommendations) Search online for licensed bail bondsmen serving Park County.
• DUI Attorneys: (General information, no specific recommendations) Search online for qualified DUI attorneys experienced in Park County.

What Makes Park County Different

Park County presents unique logistical and economic challenges for DUI defendants:

• Towing Monopoly: South Park Repair LLC (South Park Towing) is the primary towing operator for the Fairplay and central Park County region. This de facto monopoly can lead to higher towing and storage fees.
• High-Altitude Impact: The high elevation (Fairplay sits at 9,953 feet) can affect breathalyzer accuracy and individual physiological responses to alcohol.
• Economic Disparity: The northern "Bailey/Platte Canyon" corridor has higher incomes than the southern Fairplay/Alma region. This disparity impacts the ability to pay for bail, towing fees, and legal representation.
• Impoundment Costs: Due to long distances and storage fees, the cost of impoundment can quickly exceed the value of an older vehicle, leading some owners to abandon their vehicles.
• Cash-Only Towing: Many rural impound lots, including those in Park County, often require cash or verified funds (cashier's check) for impound releases.
• Sheriff's Office Patrol Districts: The Park County Sheriff’s Office operates with patrol districts: Powell, Cody, and Meeteetse, from Fairplay headquarters and the Bailey substation.

Given the complexities of a DUI arrest in Park County, including the potential for high towing costs and the need to act quickly on deadlines, your next step should be to contact the Park County Sheriff’s Office at 719-836-4373 to determine if there is a "police hold" on your vehicle. This is a critical first step before attempting to retrieve your car.