O.C. driver arrested on DUI charges after passing out while on nitroux oxide

Today, motor police officers responded to a report of two men passed out in a car that was running, according to the Costa Mesa Police Department.

The officers located a running car with the driver and passenger passed out.

Both of the suspects were in possession of nitrous oxide (NOS).

The driver displayed signs of impairment and was arrested for DUI and other drug charges.

Luckily, no one was injured and no property was damaged thanks to the quick response by the police officers.

Driving under the influence of nitrous oxide in California can lead to serious legal consequences. Here’s a breakdown of the relevant information:  

• California Penal Code 381b:
  • This code makes it a misdemeanor to possess nitrous oxide with the intent to become intoxicated, or to be under the influence of nitrous oxide for recreational purposes.  
  • Penalties include:
    • Up to six months in county jail.  
    • A maximum fine of $1,000.  
    • Possible summary probation.  
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI):
  • Driving while impaired by nitrous oxide can also lead to DUI charges, similar to those for alcohol or other drugs.  
  • California Vehicle Code 23152(e) covers driving under the influence of drugs.
  • Penalties for DUI can vary depending on factors like prior offenses and whether injuries were involved.  
  • first time DUI offenses can include:
    • jail time.  
    • fines.
    • license suspension.
    • DUI programs.

Nitrous oxide, while having legitimate medical uses, poses significant dangers when used recreationally or abused. Here’s a breakdown of those dangers:  

Short-Term Effects and Risks:

• Hypoxia (Oxygen Deprivation):
  • Nitrous oxide can displace oxygen in the lungs, leading to hypoxia. This can cause dizziness, fainting, and even death in severe cases.
• Immediate Neurological Effects:
  • These include dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion, and impaired coordination.  
• Cardiovascular Issues:
  • Nitrous oxide can cause changes in blood pressure and heart rate, potentially leading to serious complications.  
• Frostbite:
  • Inhaling nitrous oxide directly from canisters can cause severe frostbite to the mouth, throat, and lungs due to the extremely cold temperature of the gas.  
• Nausea and Vomiting:
  • These are common side effects.  

Long-Term Effects and Risks:

• Vitamin B12 Deficiency:
  • Prolonged nitrous oxide use can interfere with the body’s absorption of vitamin B12, which is essential for nerve health. This deficiency can lead to:
    • Nerve damage.  
    • Numbness and tingling in the extremities.
    • Muscle weakness.  
    • Cognitive problems.  
• Neurological Damage:
  • Severe vitamin B12 deficiency can result in serious and irreversible neurological damage, including:
    • Paralysis.  
    • Spinal cord damage.  
    • Brain damage.  
• Psychological Effects:
  • Regular nitrous oxide use can lead to:
    • Depression.
    • Psychosis.  
    • Psychological dependence.  
• Respiratory Problems:
  • Damage to the lungs can occur.  
• Reproductive System Issues:
  • There are potential risks to the reproductive systems.  
• Weakened Immune System:
  • The immune system can be negatively impacted.  

Key Dangers to Highlight:

• The risk of severe neurological damage due to B12 depletion is a very serious threat from prolonged use.  
• The direct inhalation of the gas from canisters poses a high risk of frostbite damage.  
• The risk of oxygen deprivation can lead to death.

It’s crucial to understand that nitrous oxide is not a harmless recreational drug. Its potential for causing serious and lasting harm is significant.

Art Pedroza Editor

Our Editor, Art Pedroza, worked at the O.C. Register and the OC Weekly and studied journalism at CSUF and UCI. He has lived in Santa Ana for over 30 years and has served on several city and county commissions. When he is not writing or editing Pedroza specializes in risk control and occupational safety. He also teaches part time at Cerritos College and CSUF. Pedroza has an MBA from Keller University.

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