Story perspectives

DUI Charges Hit North Dakota Attorney and Georgia Judge

10/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

Joseph Hanson, Emmons County State’s Attorney in North Dakota, faces misdemeanor DUI charges after a traffic stop on August 4.
Hanson pleaded not guilty and his trial is set for January 15.
Judge Robert Wayne Guy of Georgia resigned after an October 7 DUI arrest outside a Jacksonville strip club and faces multiple charges including refusing a sobriety test, with the Georgia Judicial Qualifications Commission investigating.

History

Historical Context

The National Minimum Drinking Age Act was enacted on July 17, 1984, following advocacy from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), founded in 1980 after the tragic death of 13-year-old Cari Lightner. This law aimed to curb alcohol-related incidents, resulting in a 13% decrease in youth traffic fatalities. Recent DUI charges against public figures highlight ongoing enforcement challenges and the need for accountability in combating impaired driving.

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Story summary

Joseph Hanson, Emmons County State’s Attorney in North Dakota, faces misdemeanor DUI charges after a traffic stop on August 4.
Hanson pleaded not guilty and his trial is set for January 15.
Judge Robert Wayne Guy of Georgia resigned after an October 7 DUI arrest outside a Jacksonville strip club and faces multiple charges including refusing a sobriety test, with the Georgia Judicial Qualifications Commission investigating.

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