Speeding Underage DUI Suspect had Firearm in Vehicle

An underage driver suspected of driving under the influence with at least five passengers in the vehicle was arrested after reportedly leading the police on a high-speed chase.

Just after midnight on January 3, a juvenile was driving a vehicle in Hamilton County with four or five passengers who were believed to be underage.

A deputy with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office spotted the car and attempted to perform a traffic stop, but the driver of the vehicle allegedly ignored him and sped away. According to reports, the car was driven well over the posted speed limit, reaching speeds up to 90 MPH.

The deputy chased after the vehicle, and it was reported that the driver slowed down and allowed some of the passengers to exit the car three separate times. The people who got out fled on foot, and it was reported that one of the pursuing deputies believed they saw one of them in possession of a firearm.

The driver pulled over shortly after, and when a deputy began interacting with them, they reported that the individual smelled like they had been drinking alcohol. When they were identified, the authorities learned they were under the age of 18. They also reported that one adult passenger was in the vehicle. When the car was searched, a firearm was reportedly discovered.

The driver was taken into custody on suspicion of multiple charges, including one count of felony evading, one count of driving under the influence, one count of unlawful possession of a firearm, and one count of reckless endangerment, in addition to speeding, driving without a valid license, and stop sign violation.

The adult passenger was detained but later released.

If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.