Miami 6/14/2011 1:26:07 AM
News / Law

Miami Dade County Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Accused of Preferential Treatment in Rapper Flo Rida’s DUI Arrest

By: Daun Lee

CBS4 news in Miami discovered that rapper Flo Rida was given VIP treatment after his DUI arrest last week. News reporters filmed a correctional officer giving the artist preferential treatment, who was released just 3 hours after his arrest. 

The time it takes for most people with a DUI charge to get out of jail is eight to eleven hours. According to bail bondsman Raul Leal, Flo Rida was released before his clients booked on the same night for similar charges because of his money and notoriety. Most people need DUI attorneys to contest the charges.

In addition to his early release, a door to the facility was propped open so the hip hop artist’s entourage could pass him personal effects, which included a shirt and hat to shield him from reporters. Leaving any door open strictly violates Department of Correction’s policies. The officer who propped the door open, Cpl. Darlene Brownsville also directed Flo Rida’s Escalade away from reporters. Brownsville had no comment for reporters when asked about the allegations of special treatment.

The Florida Department of Corrections stated that they “don’t condone any acts that gives any inmate preferential treatment” and added they would investigate the allegations.

Being charged with DUI is a serious offense, making a DUI lawyer essential when appearing in court. Everyday people don’t have the money that celebrities have, and in order for them to have the best chance in minimizing the impact a DUI has they must find an experienced DUI attorney.