RSSWhat starts out as a normal traffic stop in Southern California can often veer into completely unexpected territory. As DUI crackdowns continue past the Labor Day weekend, many L.A. residents are still being extra–cautious on the road. Recently in Yorba Linda, what began as suspicion of DUI evolved into a police chase that culminated in a dramatic arrest.
During the evening hours of Friday, September 5th, police spotted a pickup truck that appeared to be traveling erratically. The pickup ran into the back of another vehicle, and the truck’s 48-hear-old La Habra driver exited his own vehicle and entered another car. At this point, police claim the man fled and authorities went after the purportedly hijacked car in full pursuit.
The chase started in La Habra and ended in Yorba Linda, passing through Fullerton and Anaheim in the process. According to authorities the car entered and exited the 91 freeway at several points, and even went through a construction zone where a fence was reportedly taken-out by the suspect’s driving. Fortunately, no one was injured in the pursuit, which took place during relatively light traffic conditions, although several vehicles sustained damage in the cul-de-sac where the suspect came to a stop.
Police attempted a pursuit-intervention technique during the chase, but the approach ultimately failed. At one point, even a helicopter was spotted searching for the suspect. The driver surrendered to police after a team of over ten officers were spotted taking him down by local media.
Authorities believe the suspect was intoxicated while behind the wheel. They have accused him of driving without headlights on for portions of the chase, and also driving the wrong way down certain streets. The charges the suspect now faces include DUI, evading the police and carjacking.
All of these criminal charges, including DUI, carry harsh penalties in the state of California. In addition, each type of charge can be complex in its own right and, taken together, the charges can merit the need for an equally complex defense. To find out more, schedule a consultation with L.A. DUI defense attorney Jonathan Kelman at 310.286.1218.