Cheyenne County Court Process

Navigating a DUI Arrest in Cheyenne County, Colorado: A Practical Guide

If you've been arrested for DUI in Cheyenne County, Colorado, you're facing a unique set of challenges. Unlike Denver or Colorado Springs, Cheyenne County's rural setting adds logistical hurdles to an already complex legal process. This guide provides actionable information to help you navigate the system.

Understanding the Cheyenne County Landscape

Cheyenne County, with a population density of less than one person per square mile, operates under the 15th Judicial District. This means limited resources, vast travel distances, and a strong emphasis on community accountability. The county seat, Cheyenne Wells, houses the Sheriff’s Office, Combined Court, and County Clerk & Recorder. Kit Carson, the secondary municipality, is roughly 25 miles west. Major highways, U.S. 40 (east-west) and U.S. 385 (north-south), see heavy traffic, leading to DUI arrests of both local residents and transient motorists.

The Arrest and Booking Process

The moment you're stopped, Colorado's "Express Consent" law kicks in. This means you've already implicitly agreed to chemical testing. If the officer has probable cause, you'll be asked to submit to a breath or blood test.

• Breath Test: The Intoxilyzer 9000 is located at the Cheyenne County Sheriff’s Office in Cheyenne Wells. If arrested outside of town, the transport time can be significant, potentially affecting the validity of the test under the "2-hour rule."
• Blood Test: Blood draws are typically conducted at Keefe Memorial Hospital in Cheyenne Wells. This adds another layer of transport logistics.
• Refusal: Refusing a test results in immediate license confiscation and a "Notice of Revocation," which serves as a 7-day temporary permit. A refusal carries a one-year license revocation penalty.

After testing (or refusal), you'll be booked at the Cheyenne County Jail, located at 91 East 1st St N, Cheyenne Wells, CO 80810. The phone number is (719) 767-5633.

Key Players and Their Roles

• Cheyenne County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO): The primary local law enforcement agency, responsible for patrol duties, the county jail, and civil process service. Their budget is limited, with only $27,900 allocated for "Prisoner Keep" and $500 for "Towing" in 2025.
• Colorado State Patrol (CSP): CSP troopers patrol U.S. 40 and U.S. 385, often conducting "saturation patrols" during high-risk periods. They transfer custody to the CCSO after an arrest.
• Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI): The CBI provides forensic support, particularly for blood toxicology. State-funded testing has improved data quality for drug-impaired driving cases.
• 15th Judicial District Court: Located in Cheyenne Wells, this court handles DUI cases. Judge Deni Eiring currently presides over the court.

Immediate Actions to Take

1. Secure Legal Representation: Contact a DUI attorney familiar with Cheyenne County procedures.
2. Understand Your Bond: The 15th Judicial District has a bond schedule. Your attorney can advise you on the specific amount and how to post it.
3. ALR Hearing Request: You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to challenge the suspension of your driver's license. This is crucial, especially given the lack of public transportation in Cheyenne County.
4. Assess Transportation Needs: Given the limited transportation options, plan how you will get to court appearances, treatment programs, and other required appointments.

Navigating the Court Process

Cheyenne County DUI cases are prosecuted by the District Attorney's office for the 15th Judicial District. The court is located at the Cheyenne County Courthouse.

Address: 400 Cheyenne Ave, Cheyenne Wells, CO 80810

Phone: (719) 767-5716

Key Strategies:

• Solve the Transport Puzzle: Before your first court date, arrange transportation to Burlington or Lamar for interlock installation, if required.
• Localize Treatment: Enroll at Centennial Mental Health Center immediately. Proof of enrollment demonstrates your commitment to addressing any underlying issues.
• Explore Diversion: Ask your attorney to contact Tammy Williams at the 15th JD Diversion Program. This program offers a potential path to avoid a permanent criminal conviction.

Compliance Challenges and Solutions

The "punishment" in Cheyenne County is often compounded by logistical friction. The lack of public transit, the scarcity of interlock providers, and the distances involved in every step of the process create a "logistical probation."

Key Considerations:

• Interlock Installation: The nearest interlock providers may be in Burlington or Lamar, requiring significant travel.
• Treatment Programs: Access to treatment programs may be limited, requiring travel to neighboring counties.
• Probation Requirements: Meeting with probation officers and attending required meetings can be challenging due to distance and transportation limitations.

Conclusion

Navigating a DUI charge in Cheyenne County requires a proactive approach and meticulous planning. By understanding the local landscape, taking immediate action, and addressing the logistical challenges, you can improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

Next Step: Contact the Cheyenne County Combined Court at (719) 767-5716 to confirm your court date and understand any specific requirements.