Frank Solich Ohio DUI with Date Rape Drug?

Posted by Brad Koffel, June 4, 2006 2:00 p.m.

The quiet chortles and chuckles are getting louder.  Yes, it is alleged that Coach Frank Solich was the victim of some sophomoric stunt at one of the nation's better-known party schools.  Before AM Sports Radio Host gets too far down the path of hysteria lane, let me suggest that this is not only likely, but a probable scenario. 
My experience over the years of representing thousands of individuals charged with Ohio DUI is that involuntary impairment by GHB or other "club drugs" is not that uncommon.   You can logically  and safely infer  this theory from the following indisputable facts. First,  GHB and other club drugs are extremely common in college towns and  college bars. Second, college pranks are as old as colleges themselves.  Third, "dropping" or "doping" GHB in a drink is very easy. Fourth, the presence of GHB in a drink is undetectable. Fifth, Frank Solich would be a prime target for such a prank . Finally, the effects of GHB on Frank Solich would produce the exact signs and symptoms of impairment as alleged by law enforcement in Athens, Ohio.

However, and this is a huge however, involuntary impairment is not a defense to Ohio DUI.  In other words, a motorist drugged at the hand of another is just as guilty of Ohio DUI as one drugged by their own hand.  Where Coach Frank Solich and his lawyer are taking this theory, if proven, remains to be seen.  But, before the college football pundits chime in on sports-talk radio, it is wise they understand that this scenario is hardly a far flung theory.