The recent arrest of a University of Maryland assistant basketball coach sheds light on the ways in which the very suspicion of guilt can affect those who are accused of criminal infractions.

The Terrapins men's assistant coach was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving in Anne Arundel County. The police report indicates that he was pulled over after driving erratically. His behavior included "failing to driving a single lane" and making starts and stops in an "abrupt and unsafe" manner.

He was described as having slurred speech and watery, red eyes. Additionally, he "walked slowly and was swaying" and struggled with his balance. These characteristics are often attributed to those who have consumed alcohol past the legal limit.

The coach did admit to having consumed three beers during the evening. However, he was uncooperative during field sobriety tests and refused to allow law enforcement to administer a breathalyzer test.

None of these circumstances prove that the coach had driven under the influence. However, his refusal to submit to a breathalyzer and his subsequent arrest are affecting his professional life.

First, he faces a possible six-month maximum revocation of his driver's license for failing to submit to blood alcohol testing. Given that he drives for the recruitment portion of his employment duties, this may pose logistical problems.

Additionally, he has already been suspended for two games and may face more suspension time, though that has yet to be decided.

Though one is innocent until proven guilty, when it comes to a DUI arrest, refusal to submit to field testing can certainly affect the ability of someone to do his or her job. In addition, the simple suspicion of guilt can prove challenging for some to overcome in the workplace. Regardless of these hurdles, however, the accused have a right to their day in court before the public can justifiably label them as guilty.

Source: The Baltimore Sun, "Dalonte Hill's arrest comes at a busy time for Turgeon, Terps," Don Markus, Jan. 21, 2012