In article ,
says...


I learned that the defining line for DUI in a car is if the keys are
in the ignition. The officer used a story like what you related as an
example.



That might vary depending on what state you're in, and whether you're a
repeat offender. I know a guy who has a problem of this nature in Vermont
state, and the police told him that if they happen to be watching, and he
even goes out to get something from his trunk, as soon as he touches the
car in any way they've got him on intent to commit repeat DUI, with the
same effect as if they actually caught him driving.

GF