Defendant Eddie Bustillo pleads in third‑DWI case; judge suspends 10‑year sentence and imposes probation with monitoring

Eddie Bustillo appeared for a plea in a third‑degree driving‑while‑intoxicated charge. Counsel and the state stipulated exhibits and the defendant waived a reading of the indictment. After the defense confirmed the defendant’s understanding and competency, the court accepted a no‑contest plea and found sufficient evidence to find him guilty.

Defense attorney David A. Garcia (speaker 9) told the court his client is elderly and the primary caregiver for his wife, asking the court to consider probation and to probate the fine due to hardship. “He is elderly. He supports his wife who’s going through major issues…we’re hoping you follow the recommendation,” Garcia said.

The court accepted the plea and — following the parties’ recommendation — suspended a 10‑year prison term and placed the defendant on 10 years’ probation. The judge probated the $1,200 fine, ordered $60 restitution to the Department of Public Safety for testing, and imposed alternatives in lieu of a 10‑day county jail term: 30 days of GPS partial monitoring with partial fee waivers for medical appointments and necessities. The order included random UAs, a TAP evaluation, 120 hours of community‑service restitution, DWI intervention, ignition‑interlock for half the term (or another portable monitoring device with an affidavit of non‑driving), and field visits for six months.

The judge emphasized the consequences of a felony conviction, including weapons restrictions and the loss of certain rights, and advised the defendant on reporting requirements and treatment referrals. The court also instructed probation to verify proof of employment or SSI within 45 days and restricted employment involving minors or home‑health care.