Fairfax Detective Charged With DUI In Stafford County: Police

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — An off-duty detective from Fairfax County was charged with DUI in Stafford County on Friday, according to the sheriff's office. Authorities said the detective was driving his unmarked police car before he was arrested.

The Stafford County Sheriff's Office identified the detective as 57-year-old Stephen Copp. Copp is charged with DUI and a traffic signal violation. He was released on an unsecured bond and his next court date is scheduled for Thursday.

Around 12:30 a.m. on Friday, a Stafford County deputy said he saw a Ford Fusion ignore a red light and almost cause an accident at the intersection of Courthouse Road and Hospital Center Boulevard. The deputy pulled over the Ford Fusion, which was being driven by Copp.

Copp had bloodshot eyes and the smell of alcohol on his breath, according to the police report.

Copp's unmarked police car was released to the Fairfax County Police Department. The police department placed Copp on administrative leave as they conduct an internal affairs investigation.

Virginia's drunken driving laws are among the harshest in the nation, the DMV said. If a driver is convicted for a first DUI offense, the minimum punishment includes a $250 fine and a revocation of the driver's license for one year. A DUI conviction can also require the installation of an ignition interlock device.

Across the country, 28 people die in drunken driving crashes every day, according to the DMV.

Resources are available for people who are struggling with addiction. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration operates a 24/7 hotline that can help people find resources and get the help they need.