Couple Arrested for DUI After Moped Traffic Violations
A sergeant patrolling near 850 Sunset Drive arrested two individuals on DUI charges after observing erratic behavior while they operated mopeds. The incident began when the female driver made an illegal U-turn directly in front of the officer's patrol vehicle.
The male driver was observed riding his moped on the sidewalk while carrying a power tool, nearly crashing during the maneuver. Both suspects appeared to be under the influence of alcohol when contacted by Sergeant Cooper.
During field sobriety testing, the male suspect demonstrated significant impairment. He was unable to maintain balance and required three separate demonstrations of the walk-and-turn test before attempting it. The suspect became emotional during testing, breaking down during the one-leg stand portion.
When presented with the implied consent notice for breath testing, the male suspect consulted with his female companion before both individuals refused the test. Both suspects were subsequently arrested and transported to jail.
The male defendant was charged with DUI Alcohol, Improper or Erratic Lane Change, Driving on Sidewalk, and Driver Exercise Due Care. He entered a guilty plea to the DUI charge and accepted a nolo contendere plea for the sidewalk driving violation. The remaining charges against him were dismissed.
The female defendant faced charges of DUI Alcohol, Driver Exercise Due Care, and Improper or Erratic Lane Change. The case demonstrates the consequences of operating vehicles while impaired, regardless of the type of vehicle involved.
