2 Arrested for DUI After Stolen Car Crashes

Two women were recently arrested following a dramatic police chase in Fort Myers. The chase involved a stolen SUV that ended in a crash and the discovery of an unrestrained infant inside the vehicle.

The incident began on the evening of December 14 when officers were called about a stolen red Ford Edge. The victim told police she had left the only set of keys inside the vehicle at her home the night before, leaving it unlocked and accessible.

Officers eventually spotted the stolen SUV traveling east on Victoria Avenue less than two hours later. They attempted a traffic stop, but instead of pulling over, the vehicle began driving erratically. During the pursuit, the front passenger door opened and a woman, later identified as a 33-year-old woman, exited the moving SUV. She stumbled multiple times before ultimately being apprehended on foot by an officer.

Meanwhile, the chase continued with the driver, later identified as a 21-year-old woman, behind the wheel. The SUV ran several stop signs and red lights before crashing at the intersection of

Fowler Street and Dora Street, where it struck part of a local business’s property. The owner of Patrick Motors said the crash caused visible damage to a brick wall and bollards. There were also tire marks left at the scene.

Once officers reached the crashed vehicle, they discovered a 5-month-old baby inside the SUV. The child had been improperly restrained and was thrown from the car seat in the crash, later

found on the rear floorboard of the vehicle. Emergency medical personnel were called to the scene and the infant was transported to Golisano Children’s Hospital for evaluation. Police noted that the baby has since been reunited with family.

During the arrests and subsequent investigation, authorities learned the 33-year-old woman initially gave a false name and claimed the infant was not hers. A call to a family member later

confirmed her identity and relationship to the child. It was also discovered that the woman had an outstanding felony warrant for a probation violation.

Field sobriety tests administered to the 21-year-old woman indicated impairment, and officers found an open bottle of Don Julio tequila inside the SUV. She was also reported to be under the influence of narcotics. The 33-year-old woman faces charges including probation violation, resisting without violence, child neglect, and fraud for providing a false ID. The 21-year-old woman’s charges include driving without a license, grand theft auto, child neglect, fleeing from law enforcement, DUI with a minor in the vehicle, and DUI with property damage.

Contact Us Today

Alcohol use can lead to a lot of problems for some people. Many people commit DUIs and other crimes, which can result in fines, jail time, and other serious penalties.

Have you been arrested for a DUI? If so, a Fort Myers DUI attorney from Hollander & Hanuka can help you understand the charges you are facing and explain how we can help. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call (239) 332-3300.

Source:

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