The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
An off-duty Florida police officer was arrested after deputies allegedly found him stopped in the roadway while driving under the influence following reports of dangerous driving.
According to the authorities, deputies responded during the early morning hours after receiving reports of a vehicle traveling the wrong way and striking curbs. When they located the car, it was reportedly stopped in the roadway with its engine still running and the driver seated behind the wheel.
Deputies repeatedly instructed the driver to shut off the vehicle and exit. Court records allege the driver instead remained inside with his hands outside the window, telling deputies he was frightened before eventually getting out of the vehicle. After being detained, the officer allegedly identified himself as a member of a local police department and told deputies they were “on the same team.”
Police said the driver was initially uncooperative and complained about his handcuffs before eventually complying with instructions and entering a patrol vehicle after speaking with a supervisor.
During a search of the vehicle, deputies reportedly discovered an open bottle of liquor along with several loaded firearm magazines inside the car. A DUI investigator later responded and allegedly observed signs of impairment, including bloodshot, watery eyes along with the smell of an alcoholic beverage.
After being advised of his rights, the officer reportedly told investigators he had been attending a friend’s party but could not provide the location. Authorities said he also admitted drinking tequila but claimed he could not remember how much he had consumed. Investigators further noted that although he said he was attempting to drive home, he was traveling in the opposite direction.
Because deputies had reported earlier resistance, investigators did not perform traditional field sobriety exercises. Instead, a modified eye movement test was reportedly conducted while the driver remained inside the patrol vehicle, and the investigator stated the results were consistent with impairment.
The officer was arrested and booked into jail on allegations of driving under the influence, resisting an officer without violence, and failing to obey a lawful order.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a DUI offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.