A judge in Colorado has sent a powerful message about drunk driving. Arguably, too powerful.
Per multiple reports, Broncos director of player personnel Matt Russell has received a sentence of seven months after pleading guilty to DUI, careless driving, and possession of an open container of alcohol. Russell also will be placed on probation for two years.
Russell drove his vehicle into a police SUV, injuring a Breckenridge, Colorado police officer.
Per a source with knowledge of the situation, Russell will be eligible for work release. Also, under a Colorado law that provides a day-for-day credit based on time served, Russell’s sentence should be completed in 3.5 months.
He was suspended by the Broncos following the incident, and Russell has at all times shown remorse for his conduct. While it seems that the judge went perhaps too far to make an example out of Russell, the outcome sends the strongest message possible to anyone who may be tempted to get behind the wheel of a car after drinking.