Drug Crimes, Substance Abuse Marijuana ACD with an alcohol summons

[mysnsux09]

I am currently on a 12 month Marijuana ACD that dictates that I should stay out of trouble, that is all.

I have just received a summons for public consumption of alcohol, which is a false accusation. My 27 year old friend (I am currently 19) was the only one with an open beer walking down the street when the cops arrived. I was walking with him and the police charged each of us with the violation. Currently, this is my only offense besides the marijuana charge on my record.

I am also on federal financial aid for my school, which is my main concern. Would this affect my loans/grants if I were to plead guilty by mail? (A violation, not a crime and a $25 fine) Or should I take the trip down from Buffalo to appear in court to dispute this?

 

[mysnsux09]

Also, as my father is a retired sergeant from the NYPD, quoted from the police at the time of the infraction "he should talk through channels to see what he can get done". Two of my cousins are currently hired in the NYPD.

My girlfriend has had a similar charge voided by her sister (a current police officer) by making a phone call.

Would it be wise to have my father talk through these said "channels" or suck it up, pay the $25? I'd willingly pay for a lawyer to help fight this charge if this would re-open my ACD for marijuana.

If it's any help, the violation is under section 10-125(b) of NYC law.
Title of offense: Public consumption of alachol(sic).
Factual allegations: (illegible) ... was in possession of an open container of alachol(sic) 16 oz can of coorslight (sic).