A Washington man was apprehended after reportedly causing car crashes and leading the police on a high-speed chase while trying to give his pit bull lessons on how to drive a vehicle.
51-year-old Alberto Tito Alejandro lives just outside of Seattle in Lakewood, Washington.
During the afternoon on March 29, Alejandro, who owns a pit bull, allegedly took his dog on the road in his Buick.
When Alejandro’s vehicle was reportedly traveling on I-5 several other drivers on the interstate began alerting the authorities when they allegedly saw the Buick driving in an unsafe manner. Alejandro’s vehicle also reportedly crashed into two other cars.
When Washington State troopers dispatched to the reported area of the interstate, they saw the vehicle they believed the people notified them about and they tried to force the car to come to a stop.
As the troopers peered into the Buick they reported that they saw a pit bull behind the wheel in the driver’s seat, and they purported that Alejandro was controlling the steering and pedals.
The Buick reached reported speeds in excess of 100 MPH before leaving the main road and moving onto a public trail where people typically spend time hiking and biking around.
The authorities deemed it necessary to use spike strips to force the vehicle to stop, and their tactic was successful.
When interacting with the troopers and telling them what transpired during the incident Alejandro allegedly offered the explanation that he was giving the pit bull driving lessons when things went haywire.
Alejandro, who was thought to be under the influence of an altering substance, was placed under arrest and checked at a local hospital before he was booked and charged for suspicion of reckless endangerment, hit and run, driving under the influence, and felony eluding. His bond was set at $8500.
The dog, which a deputy said was very sweet in demeanor, was taken to a local shelter in her owner’s absence.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a crime, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.