DUI suspect’s backflip during sobriety test captivated online viewers, impressed the officers- but arrested anyway
By Michael Daknis
In a video that has taken the internet by storm, a DUI suspect in a small-town wowed viewers with his impressive backflip during a field sobriety test. Despite his acrobatic feat, the suspect was ultimately arrested by police on suspicion of driving under the influence.
The incident occurred late one evening when police pulled the suspect over for swerving between lanes. When asked how much he had had to drink, the suspect responded:
“Three or four [beers].”
Classic answer.
How It Went Down
The officer then proceeded to administer a series of sobriety tests. On his first test, the horizontal gaze nystagmus test, involves the officer moving an object, such as a finger or pen, in front of the suspect’s face and asking them to follow it with their eyes.
The suspect struggled to keep his eyes focused on the object, a sign of impairment. The officer can be heard saying:
“That’s kind of hard to do right there, way out of my vision.”
The second test, the walk and turn test, requires the suspect to walk in a straight line, heel to toe, and follow the officer’s instructions. Despite the officer’s clear and repeated instructions, the suspect was unable to complete the task, stumbling and failing to follow directions.
The suspect can be heard saying:
“I think that’s pretty solid proof, no?”
But it was during the one-leg stand test that the suspect really made headlines. Rather than standing on one leg as instructed, the suspect launched into a backflip, much to the surprise of the officers and anyone watching the video.
The officers can be heard laughing and exclaiming in shock at the suspect’s unexpected acrobatics. One officer can be heard saying:
“That’s good man.”
Despite his impressive display of physical ability, his ‘DUI suspect backflip’ idea didn’t work and he was arrested on suspicion of DUI.
The video, which has garnered millions of views on social media, has sparked widespread discussion and reaction.
Many viewers have praised the suspect’s athleticism and questioned the effectiveness of field sobriety tests. Others have argued that the suspect’s behavior and inability to follow simple instructions demonstrate impairment and justify the arrest.
Do the Right Thing
Regardless of differing opinions on the matter, it is important to remember that driving under the influence is a serious crime with potentially deadly consequences.
No amount of athleticism or sobriety tricks can change that fact.
If you have been drinking, it is always best to designate a sober driver or call an Uber or Lyft to get home safely.
Don’t take the risk and end up like this suspect – in jail and the subject of a viral internet sensation.
It is worth noting that field sobriety tests are just one aspect of a DUI investigation. Police officers also consider other factors, such as the suspect’s behavior, speech, and demeanor, in determining whether to make an arrest.
In this case, the suspect’s inability to follow instructions and perform basic tasks, as well as his admission to drinking alcohol, likely played a role in the decision to arrest him.
In addition, it is important to understand that the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) varies from state to state and can depend on various factors such as age and type of driver’s license.
In this case, it is not clear what the suspect’s BAC was at the time of the traffic stop. However, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher in all 50 states. Driving under the influence is a serious offense that can have serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and the loss of driving privileges.
It can also have serious and lasting effects on a person’s personal and professional life. Remember, the consequences of a DUI is just not worth it.
Just ask the countless inmates in prisons across the country who have been convicted of killing someone because they were driving drunk. Ask them what they would do if they could go back in time.
Remember to always make safe and responsible decisions when it comes to drinking and driving. Don’t put yourself and others at risk – always designate a sober driver or call a ride-sharing service to get home safely.
Editor’s Note
Although this ‘DUI suspect backflip’ is a funny story, drinking and driving is not. Tens of thousands of people die every year as a result of drunk driving accidents. Furthermore, if you have a drinking problem, seek help now before it’s too late.
Call 1(800)662-HELP to speak to a professional.
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About the writer Michael Daknis: I am dedicated to providing in-depth and informative coverage of the latest news and issues facing law enforcement. Thank you for reading and I look forward to continuing to shed light on the challenges and triumphs of those who serve and protect our communities
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