Judge defers DWI charges for Chapa with 10 years probation and treatment requirements

The government meeting held on July 16, 2025, in Judge Raquel West's Personal Meeting Room focused on the probation terms for a defendant, Mr. Chapa, following a DWI conviction. The session began with the defense attorney outlining Mr. Chapa's employment history and progress in addressing his alcohol issues through professional counseling. The attorney emphasized Mr. Chapa's commitment to complying with probation requirements and expressed confidence in his rehabilitation.

Judge West acknowledged Mr. Chapa's guilty plea and decided to defer proceedings, placing him on a 10-year probation instead of imposing a conviction. The terms of probation included a $1,000 fine, mandatory participation in an intensive outpatient treatment program, and the requirement to wear a SCRAM device to monitor alcohol consumption. The judge instructed Mr. Chapa to obtain the SCRAM device within 24 hours, but the defense attorney raised concerns about scheduling difficulties with the service provider.

After discussion, Judge West agreed to extend the deadline for obtaining the SCRAM device until the following Tuesday, allowing Mr. Chapa time to complete the necessary arrangements. The judge reiterated the importance of adhering to probation conditions, including abstaining from alcohol and not possessing firearms. She emphasized that successful completion of probation would result in the dismissal of charges, while any violations could lead to severe penalties, including a felony conviction and potential prison time.

The meeting concluded with Judge West encouraging Mr. Chapa to take advantage of this opportunity for rehabilitation and to understand the serious implications of failing to comply with probation terms. The session highlighted the court's focus on rehabilitation while maintaining strict oversight of probation conditions.