No one intends to get caught when they decide to get behind the wheel of a vehicle while intoxicated. Even fewer expect to be fired on by law enforcement. In today’s climate regarding officer involved shootings, officers must exercise judgement before discharging their firearm, even against someone who might be under the influence and not thinking clearly.
Last week, a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputy fatally shot and killed a man who had been allegedly driving under the influence. The chase began when the officer tried to initiate a stop for a man who had been driving recklessly. The driver sped off but pulled into a cul-de-sac a few miles away in Vermont Vista. It was at this point that the driver then allegedly tried to run over the deputy. The deputy, fearing for his life, fired several shots that struck and killed the suspect.
A passenger in the suspect’s car tells a different story. The witness, who identified herself as Sherri Lane, reported that the driver had not been driving recklessly. When deputies pulled them over and ordered them out of the car, Lane stated that she complied, but the driver did not. She went on to further state that the driver had his hands on the steering wheel, was unarmed, and was fatally shot without provocation.
The sheriff’s deputy suffered minor injuries that did not require hospitalization. It is believed that the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the incident.
If you or someone that you know has been accused of DUI, obtaining legal counsel is imperative to achieve the best possible outcome. An experienced DUI attorney can help you to navigate the complex legal system. Contact our office for a consultation now.
