Choices & Consequences Subject of Assembly

Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice, a graduate of Garden City High School, said that her office has an aggressive prosecution policy for drunk driving offenses.

Thanks to the effort of the Garden City Community Council on Substance Abuse and Prevention, Juniors and Seniors at Garden City High School learned about the consequences of risky behaviors at an assembly last week from court and enforcement professionals on the front lines in the fight against drinking and driving.

"I have a terrible job" Assistant District Attorney Maureen McCormick told the students. "I see lives ruined by bad choices every day." Ms. McCormick went on to describe the devastating impact of automobile accidents through stories and photographs depicting several of the criminal cases she has handled.

District Attorney Kathleen Rice then took center stage. "To some, strict prosecution policies for drunk drivers might seem harsh," she said." But I do it because I want to save lives-your lives and the lives you may take if you make bad choices," Ms. Rice said.

A student helps Police Sergeant Gus Kalin demonstrate a sobriety test.

Nassau County Judge Jerald Carter joined Ms. Rice and Ms. McCormick in the front of the auditorium. "I'm here now," Judge Carter told the students, "because I do not want to see you in my courtroom."

Aided by students, Nassau County Police Sergeant Gus Kalin demonstrated how drivers are screened for intoxication when they are pulled over, and two young people who have been through the court system because of their involvement in serious accidents appeared to tell their stories. The students also received facts about the effects of alcohol on the body, tips for safe driving, and information about driving while intoxicated laws.