A Sunnyside prosecutor accustomed to prosecuting drunk drivers finds herself the defendant in her own drunk driving case, reports KIMA TV.

Kathleen Hitchcock, prosecutor for the City of Sunnyside, was arrested for a DUI earlier this week. The DUI stop initially occurred when Hitchcock was stopped for speeding on Interstate 82. The Washington State Patrol said that it had originally only sought a verbal warning against the prosecutor. However, during the interaction with Hitchcock, the state trooper said that he could not hear what Hitchcock was saying and was forced to lean into the car. As the trooper leaned in, he was able to discern the smell of alcohol and note the bloodshot eyes of the prosecutor.

While Hitchcock admitted to drinking two margaritas, she reportedly tested for a much higher blood alcohol level than that would indicate. Authorities say that she took two Breathalzyer tests and measured 0.253 and 0.248 -- both over three times the legal limit of 0.08. The arrest report also indicated that Hitchcock had a loaded gun in her purse that could add to her troubles.

Since Hitchcock obviously cannot prosecute herself, the city is calling on other prosecutors from Yakima County to handle the matter.

If Hitchcock is convicted, she could potentially lose her job as city prosecutor. She has already been suspended from her position as city prosecutor and her suitability to continue that position will surely be put in doubt with a conviction.

Kathleen Hitchcock's DUI case should serve as a stark reminder to potential drunk drivers of the serious consequences of a DUI. Oftentimes, the monetary fine and even jail time associated with a drunk driving conviction are the least serious penalties that one faces. In the case of a successful city prosecutor, she could potentially lose her job and reputation if convicted of the DUI.

If you need assistance with a drunk driving case in the Seattle or King County areas, contact the experienced attorneys at Wolff Criminal Defense by calling 425-284-2000. There is a lot at stake with a DUI conviction and you will not want to fight your case alone.