The Situation: A Nightmare Arrest
Imagine being arrested and facing a laundry list of serious charges that could ruin your future. That was the reality for a young Manhattan Beach client arrested by the CHP Baldwin Park Station on January 31, 2026. The allegations were severe:
• Felony Evading Police (VC 2800.2): A felony charge that carries prison time.
• DUI (VC 23152 A & B): Driving under the influence of alcohol.
• Speeding over 100 MPH (VC 22348 B): A major infraction resulting in massive fines and license suspension.
Most people in this situation wait weeks for their court date, hoping for the best. But in criminal defense, waiting is the biggest mistake you can make.
The Strategy: Proactive Early Intervention
Instead of sitting back, Top Tier Los Angeles DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff immediately went to work. He didn’t wait for the police reports to slowly make their way through the system. He utilized a strategy known as Early Intervention, reaching out to the District Attorney early, soon after the arrest.

Matthew reached out directly to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office (Pomona Branch, West Covina Court) before the case was even filed. By preparing mitigating evidence and being ready to point out critical flaws in the arrest immediately, he was able to get ahead of the prosecution’s narrative.
The Result: “Declined to File Charges”
The timeline of this victory speaks for itself:
• Arrest Date: January 31, 2026
• DA Decision Date: February 3, 2026
In just 3 days—and well before the client ever had to step foot in a courtroom—the District Attorney issued a formal rejection letter. As stated in the official document from the DA’s office:
“A search of the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office database reveals that on 02/03/2026, our office declined to file charges… for his/her 01/31/2026 arrest.”

Why This Matters
Because of Matthew Ruff’s swift action, a case that included Felony Evading, DUI and Speeding over 100 MPH was completely dropped. No court appearances, no conviction, and a clean record preserved.
The Lesson
If you or a loved one are arrested for a serious offense like DUI or Felony Evasion, do not wait for your court date to hire a lawyer. The window between arrest and filing is critical.
Contact Torrance DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff immediately to discuss Early Intervention strategies for your case. Though based in the South Bay (Torrance) Matthew defends DUI and criminal cases throughout Southern California.