Anthem, Arizona, December 27, 2025
On Christmas Eve in Anthem, Arizona, a 32-year-old woman was arrested after allegedly driving at 113 miles per hour with her 8-year-old child in the backseat while suspected of being intoxicated. The incident raises critical concerns about child endangerment and DUI laws in Arizona. The woman, Ariel Olson, is now facing serious charges, including aggravated DUI and potential child endangerment, which could lead to severe legal consequences.
Anthem, Arizona
A 32-year-old woman was arrested on Christmas Eve in Anthem, Arizona, after allegedly driving 113 miles per hour with an 8-year-old child in the backseat while suspected of being intoxicated. The arrest documents indicate Ariel Olson was driving south on I-17 near Anthem when a law enforcement officer observed her excessive speed.
Details of the Incident and Arrest
The arrest of Ariel Olson, 32, occurred on December 24, 2025. She faces serious charges including suspected drunk driving and potential child endangerment due to the presence of an 8-year-old passenger in the vehicle at the time of the alleged offense. Driving at a speed of 113 MPH significantly exceeds posted speed limits, elevating the severity of the traffic violation.
Legal Ramifications in Arizona
In Arizona, driving under the influence (DUI) with a child under the age of 15 in the vehicle is considered an aggravated DUI, which is a felony offense. This carries severe penalties, including a mandatory minimum jail term of at least 180 days, a fine of up to $4,000, and a one-year driver’s license suspension.
Beyond aggravated DUI, charges related to child endangerment are also possible. While Arizona does not have a specific statute solely for “child endangerment,” the general endangerment statute (ARS § 13-1201) prohibits recklessly endangering another person with a substantial risk of imminent physical injury or death. If the endangerment involves a substantial risk of imminent physical injury, it is generally a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If the behavior creates a substantial risk of imminent death, it becomes a Class 6 felony, which can result in prison time ranging from four months to two years and fines of up to $150,000.
Speeding as a Criminal Offense
Exceeding the speed limit by more than 20 miles per hour, or driving over 85 MPH anywhere in Arizona, can lead to a criminal speeding charge, which is a Class 3 misdemeanor. Penalties for criminal speeding can include a fine of up to $500 (plus an $80 surcharge), three points added to the driver’s license, up to 30 days in jail, and up to a year of probation. Jail time for a first offense of misdemeanor criminal speeding is rare but can be imposed, especially when combined with more egregious charges like a DUI or reckless driving.
Arizona’s DUI Laws and Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)
In Arizona, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for most adult drivers is 0.08%. However, an individual can still be charged with DUI if they are “impaired to the slightest degree” by alcohol or drugs, even if their BAC is below 0.08%. The state also has stricter categories for higher BAC levels, such as Extreme DUI (0.15% to 0.199%) and Super Extreme DUI (0.20% or higher), which carry increased penalties. For drivers under 21, Arizona enforces a zero-tolerance policy, meaning any detectable BAC (0.01% or higher) can lead to DUI charges.
Child Passenger Safety Laws
Arizona law mandates specific requirements for child passengers. Children under 8 years old or shorter than 4 feet 9 inches must be secured in a proper child restraint system, such as a car seat or booster seat. For children aged 8 and older, a standard seat belt is permissible if it fits correctly. The driver is responsible for ensuring children under 16 are properly buckled up. Violations of child restraint laws can result in fines, for example, a $175 fine for not following child restraint laws. While some states have specific laws for children sitting in the front seat, in Arizona, vehicle manufacturers generally recommend children remain in the rear seat until at least 13 years of age. Seat belts are a crucial safety measure, reducing the risk of serious injury or death in a crash.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What was the primary offense leading to the arrest in Anthem, Arizona?
- The primary offense was suspected drunk driving while allegedly going 113 miles per hour with an 8-year-old child in the backseat.
- When did the arrest occur?
- The arrest occurred on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025.
- What are the potential charges for driving under the influence with a child in Arizona?
- In Arizona, driving under the influence with a child under the age of 15 in the vehicle is classified as an aggravated DUI, which is a felony offense. Additional charges for child endangerment are also possible.
- What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for adult drivers in Arizona?
- For most adult drivers in Arizona, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%.
- What are Arizona’s child passenger safety seat requirements?
- Children under 8 years old or shorter than 4 feet 9 inches must be secured in a proper child restraint system. For children aged 8 and older, a standard seat belt is permissible if it fits correctly.
Key Legal Considerations in Arizona
| Legal Aspect | Arizona Law and Penalties | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Aggravated DUI (with minor) | Felony offense; minimum 180 days jail; up to $4,000 fine; 1-year license suspension. | State-level |
| Child Endangerment | Class 1 Misdemeanor (substantial risk of injury): up to 6 months jail, up to $2,500 fine. Class 6 Felony (substantial risk of death): 4 months to 2 years prison, up to $150,000 fine. | State-level |
| Criminal Speeding | Class 3 Misdemeanor; up to $500 fine (plus surcharges); 3 points on license; up to 30 days jail; up to 1 year probation. | State-level |
| Legal BAC Limit (Adults) | 0.08% or higher for most adult drivers. “Impaired to the slightest degree” is also illegal. | State-level |
| Child Restraint System (Car/Booster Seats) | Required for children under 8 years old or shorter than 4 feet 9 inches. | State-level |
| Seatbelt Use (8-year-old+) | For children aged 8 and older, a standard seat belt is permissible if it fits correctly. Driver responsible for children under 16. | State-level |
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