The Supreme Court allowed the confiscation of vehicles for repeated drunk driving.

      October 16, 2025 18:38 Society

      The Supreme Court of the Russian Federation has allowed the confiscation of cars from drivers repeatedly caught driving under the influence. The decision was made after reviewing the case of a driver who was detained twice for drunk driving. The first time he got off with a fine; the second time he received 240 hours of community service and was deprived of his driving license for two years. His Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 was confiscated. Attempts to get the car back were unsuccessful.

      The Supreme Court emphasized that confiscation is possible if the driver has previously been punished for driving under the influence and again got behind the wheel while drunk. The offender’s financial situation and life circumstances are not taken into account. It is important that the vehicle must belong to the driver and be used to commit an offense under Articles 264.1 or 264.3 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation.

      Auto lawyer Dmitry Slavnov, in a conversation with 360.ru, criticized the practice of confiscating cars, calling it ineffective and harsh. He noted that depriving someone of a car can seriously affect the entire family of the driver, including those who contributed funds to its purchase.

      Slavnov suggested revoking driving licenses permanently for repeated drunk driving. He also believes that community service could serve as an additional punishment, since a vehicle poses an increased danger.

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